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Christ Among Men 


OBJECT LESSONS 
IN PERSONAL WORK 


By JAMES McCONAUGHY 

Teacher of the English Bible in Mount Hermon School 


u He that winneth souls is wise” 


Second Revision 


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New York 

International Committee of Young Men’s 
Christian Associations 






LIBRARY OF 

CONGRESS, 

Two Cones Received 

OKC. ? 1901 

CftF'-'mflHT ENTSV 

W^sfeStib^WSS. No. 

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Copyright 1894 
by 

The International Committee of 
Young Men’s Christian Associations. 




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2-0-P1073-9-01 


PREFACE TO THIRD EDITION. 


This course of study was first outlined in 
1892, and two years later was published in 
fuller form, with suggestions under each study 
to guide both teacher and student. It has 
found a most generous reception, five thousand 
copies in the smaller, and ten thousand in the 
larger form having been called for. Another 
edition being now required, the opportunity 
is taken to revise it in the hope of adapting it 
still better to its purpose. The number of 
studies has been reduced, so as to bring it 
within the limits of the usual Bible class year. 
In selecting the interviews of Christ to be re- 
tained, it has been found possible to take only 
those which emphasize some teaching of im- 
portance regarding personal work. These 
are given in the order in which they occur in 
Jesus’ ministry, and a glance over the table of 
contents will show that this order is the nat- 
ural one, leading the worker on from necessary 
preparation through varied experience to wid- 
ening usefulness. The progress in Jesus’ own 
ministry, as well as in His training of His 
followers, is still clearly shown, but less empha- 


3 


sis is laid upon it, and attention is centered in 
each study upon the lessons to be gathered 
from the Master at work, remembering His 
own words, “For I have given you an exam- 
ple, that ye also should do as I have done.” 

With the earnest prayer that He may find 
in this little book some faithful, though very 
inadequate and imperfect, presentation of His 
words and His Spirit, and may thus use it for 
His own glory, it is sent forth again on its 
errand of service. 

Mount Hermon, Mass., 

September I, ipoi. 


4 


CONTENTS 


INTRODUCTORY. 

PAGE. 


I. The Course of Study 9 

II. Its Use in Promoting Personal Work 10 

III. Suggestions for the Leaders of Classes 11 

IV. Suggestions for the Members of Classes 16 

V. Books That Should Help 18 

VI. The Spirit Which Must Animate Both Teacher 

and Student 20 


STUDIES. 

I. The Period of Preparation. 

1. Preliminary.— The General Preparation of the 

Personal Worker. 

What he Needs to Know and to Be 27 

2. The Special Preparation of the Personal 

Worker. 

Voluntary Devotion to God's Service. Anoniting by 
the Spirit. Victory Over Personal Temptations . ... 31 

II. The Period of Introduction. 

3. With the First Disciples, Men who are Fol- 

lowing the Light They Have. 

Beginning Work. Where? With Whom? How? The 
Results to be Anticipated 37 

4. With Nicodemus, One with Whom Knowledge 

and Position are Only Hindrances to Faith. 

The Fundamental Truths to be Emphasized in Per- 
sonal Work 40 


5 


5. 


PAGE 

With the Woman of Sychar, who, Both by He- 
redity and by Her Life, Seems Outside the 
Pale of Religion. 

The Sphere of Personal Work. Who are to be In- 
cluded . , and how they are to be Brought In 42 


III. The Period of Widening Influence. 


6. With Pharisees, who Criticise His Followers. 

The Worker's Attitude Toward Criticism and Those 

Who Offer It 47 

7. With John the Baptist, Seeking Relief from 

Doubts. 

The Facts of Divine Power and Grace that Answer 
to the Questionings op Hard Experience 49 


8. With Self-Righteous Simon the Pharisee, and 

the Loving Penitent Woman. 

Adapting Truth and Treatment to the Opposite Needs 
of Different Individuals 52 

9. With Men so Bitter in Their Opposition to 

Christ that they Pervert the Truth and 
Resort to Slander. 

Showing what God Regards as Sinning Against the 
Holy Spirit and what must be its Outcome 55 

IV. The Period of Misunderstanding and 
Opposition. 

10. With Simon Peter, when he Testifies to Jesus 

as the Son of God but Rejects His Atoning 
Death. 

Presenting fesus as both Divine Lord and Atoning 
Saviour and Calling Men to Deny Self and Follow 
Him 61 

11. With Those Who Thronged the Temple Courts 

at the Feast of Tabernacles. 

Testing Men to Ascertain their Willingness to Believe , 
and their Thirst for Spiritual Life and Power 64 

12. With the Blind Beggar, who Received Spirit- 

ual as well as Bodily Sight. 

6 


0 



PAGE 

Shoiving how Light is to be had, and how it may be In- 


creased 66 

13. Review 69 


V. The Approach to the Goal. 

14. With Three Men Favorably Disposed Toward 

Christ, but Lacking Steadfast Purpose, and 
with Another who Treats Salvation as a 
Subject of Speculation. 

Urging Christ's Supreme Claim Upon Every Life and 
the Immediate Duty of Personal Action 75 

15. With Dear Friends Overwhelmed by Sorrow. 

Comfort mg by Human Sympathy and by the Truth 
which Robs Grief of its Sting 78 

16. With the Young Ruler who Loved Money too 

Well, and the Chief Publican whom Money 
had Failed to Satisfy. 

Testing the Man who Prides Himself on His Record; 
Seeking the Man who has no Record to be Proud Of. 81 


VI. The Passion Week. 

17. With the Greeks, who Ask to “See Jesus” 

Without Really Understanding what their 
Request Involves. 

Uplifting the Dying yet Glorified Lord before the Eyes 
of all Men 89 

18. With His Own Disciples, When They Show the 

World’s Spirit. 

Exemplifying and Applying the Object Lesson of 
Lowly Service for Others 92 

19. With Simon Peter when He Shows Dangerous 

Self-Confidence and Self-Will. 

Plain Warnings Repeated Once and Again in Love. 
Patience with the Wayward One 95 

20. With Pilate, who Wants to do Right, but will 

NOT MAKE THE SACRIFICE IT REQUIRES. 

Showing “ What is Truth," both Concerning Jesus and 
Concerning Personal Responsibility to Him 98 


7 


PAGE 





VII. From the Tomb to the Throne. 

1. With Two Men who are in a Fog of Doubt 

ABOUT THE CENTRAL TRUTHS OF CHRISTIANITY. 
Showing the Place in God’s Plans of Jesus’ Death and 
Resurrection and the Certainty of Both 105 

2. With Thomas, the Loyal but Gloomy Doubter. 

Patiently Pointing to the Convincing Evidence 108 

3. With Simon Peter, the Restored Backslider. 

Reminding of the Cause of Former Failure; Empha- 
sizing the Necessity for the future of Love and 
Obedie?ice ; Showing Confidence and Trust 110 

24. With His Followers, as they Face the Work 
of Winning all Men for Him. 

Clearly Indicating their Work , its Nature and Scope ; 
Promising Abundant Power , and Showing how it 


is to be Received 113 

25. Final Review 118 

Index to Classes of Persons Interviewed. 121 

Index to Portions of the Gospels Treated 123 


8 


INTRODUCTORY. 


I. THE COURSE OF STUDY. 

This course aims to help those who follow 
it in the supremely important work of win- 
ning, one by one, other lives to the service of 
Jesus Christ. It seeks to do this by promoting 
in the student the spirit of his Master, by ac- 
quainting him with the great truths his Mas- 
ter taught, and by training him in his Mas- 
ter’s methods of meeting and helping all sorts 
of people. 

It traces a line of progress in the Saviour’s 
ministry, which should leave a much clearer 
impression of it as a whole and make 
many of His words glow with new light and 
burn with new heat While it should, there- 
fore, add much to the student’s knowledge of 
the gospels, it is intended not so much for 
instruction as for stimulus, for guiding, for 
training. Its chief aim will be missed by the 
student who does not, week by week, in his 
own life follow out what he learns. A part of 
each class hour will, therefore, be devoted to 
studying together the actual efforts to do per- 


sonal work which members of the class are 
making, applying to the experiences of to-day’s 
service the lessons learned from the Saviour’s 
example. 

II. ITS USE IN PROMOTING PERSONAL 
WORK. 

Personal Christian work is more than drop- 
ping a word for Jesus as the opportunity 
offers. It is more than talking with an in- 
quirer in an after meeting and pointing him to 
fitting texts of Scripture. It may take either 
of these forms or some other form, but to be 
really fruitful, it must mean becoming a chan- 
nel of spiritual life from God to some individ- 
ual. There is need of such service toward 
weak and perplexed and careless and worldly- 
minded Christians as well as toward the un- 
saved. It involves the filling of one’s own life 
(John 7: 37) and the outpouring of its full- 
ness into another emptier life. 

Such service is not the privilege of the gifted 
few alone, but is open to every Christian who 
will yield himself to God to be used in this 
way. Some, doubtless, have more pronounced 
social qualities, a more winning personality 
than others, but such gifts as one has may be 
greatly increased by cultivation and God has 
again and again called to great usefulness the 


10 



man who was most distrustful of his own 
fitness. 

As the Saviour chose for His disciples men 
who were willing to follow His example, 
though as yet most unfitted to represent Him, 
so in every church and young people’s society 
and Christian association a band should be 
gathered, composed of those who love their 
Lord, and want to win others to Him, and 
therefore desire to be trained in such service. 
Such a band, known usually as a Workers’ 
Training class, may greatly help one another 
by meeting weekly for the study of a course 
like this and for counsel and prayer regarding 
the personal work each is endeavoring to do. 
To secure unity of purpose and freedom of 
expression the group may well be small and its 
members should be selected with judgment and 
care. In a large church or association, where 
many may be found ready to undertake per- 
sonal work, a number of group classes may 
well be formed, and their leaders may form 
a central class. The teacher of this central 
class will then have a rare opportunity and 
responsibility in giving direction and stimulus 
to the personal work of many. 


ii 


III. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE LEADERS 
OF CLASSES. 

1. Undertaking the zvork. 

(1) Realize how great is your privilege 
and opportunity. Do not undertake the work 
unless you have a real sense of unfitness for it, 
coupled with the assurance that your Master 
desires you to do it and will supply all needed 
grace and wisdom. Let your own depend- 
ence upon Him and constant prayer affect the 
whole spirit of your class. 

(2) Plan your time so as to give to this 
work the portion it deserves. Doubtless you 
are already busy, or you would not be asked 
to lead. Review your occupations and see 
what might well be dropped that you may 
concentrate on what Jesus evidently regarded 
as most important and most fruitful. 

2. Advance preparation. 

(1) Secure and read the three little books 
on Personal Work mentioned on page 18. 
This will give you a clearer idea of what the 
aim of your class should be and of how to meet 
some of the difficulties that will arise. 

(2) Have accessible to the class copies of 
these same books and also of some at least of 
those recommended as specially helpful in this 
course of study. If not found in some library 
which is open to them, a small fund might be 


12 



raised in the class or otherwise, and the collec- 
tion bought and placed where all members 
could use it. Members of the class will no 
doubt desire to purchase some of the books 
and the leader may be able to secure these 
at special rates. 

3. In the class. 

( 1 ) The place of meeting should be a cosy, 
well-ventilated room, free from interruption. 
A table around which all can gather will bring 
the members shoulder to shoulder, help to re- 
move restraint, and at the same time afford 
convenience in use of Bible and note book. 

(2) The following order for the class hour 
is suggested : Review of previous lesson, 5 
minutes; study of the Bible incident, 30 min- 
utes ; reports and conference on personal work, 
20 minutes. Prayer should always begin the 
hour, and may be introduced during its pro- 

• gress or at the close when it seems best. 

a. The review should consist only of a few 
leading questions so framed as to draw out 
from the class the main points and teachings 
of the previous week’s Bible study. After 
taking it himself once or twice, the leader 
should appoint each week some member of the 
class to conduct it next time. Help him pri- 
vately, if necessary, in framing his questions. 
Let the review usually follow along the line of 


13 


the points called for in the review chart. See 
page 70. If this chart is filled out week by 
week, it will make the review much easier 
and more satisfactory. 

b. In teaching the Bible incident, usually 
have the passage read, but vary the method. 
Have one member read it from the Revised 
Version or from Rotherham’s emphasized 
translation, or from The I nterzvoven Gospels, 
while the rest carefully follow the text before 
them. 

By all means avoid lecturing and exhorting. 
Follow the points of the outline, but do not 
use it slavishly. Put thought into the framing 
of questions, so as to bring out the truth and 
its applications. Never tell the class what 
you can get them to tell you. If there are 
some who evidently do not know how to study, 
even with the aid of an outline, give an hour to 
studying a lesson with them. It will help 
them and help you in teaching them afterward. 

Kindly check the talkative member, who is 
tempted to monopolize the time, and draw out 
the retiring. 

Above all, keep in mind always your aim. 
It is not to teach all you know about the inci- 
dent, but to bring its truths to bear on the 
promotion of personal work. So avoid the 
unessentials, put life and heart into the study, 
press on to the applications. 


14 



c. Treat the conference on the actual per- 
sonal work of the class as the most important 
part of the hour. After the first or second 
lesson, give it its place in every class hour and 
see that it is not crowded out by spending too 
much of the time on the Bible lesson. Have it 
clearly understood that whatever is stated in 
the class about the work which members are 
doing is to be regarded as strictly confidential. 
Without mentioning names or personal details, 
enough can be reported by each member about 
any person whom he is trying to help to give 
a clear idea of his position as related to Christ. 

As such instances of personal work are re- 
ported, let the leader or the class select one to 
study for the next group meeting, and let each 
come prepared with the most helpful sugges- 
tions he is able to make, with Bible passages 
containing the truth which seems to be needed. 
As soon as the class is thoroughly in earnest, 
there should be no lack of such instances 
for study. The leader should set the exam- 
ple here, and encourage any who hold back. 
Do not make them uncomfortable by fixing 
attention in class on their failure to report, 
but in private conference try to ascertain and 
remove the difficulty, and assign some special 
personal work for them to undertake. 

For this part of the class work, even more 
than for the teaching, the leader will need a 


15 


prayerful spirit and a loving heart. If the 
work becomes mechanical, or drops into dis- 
cussion or criticism, its helpfulness will be 
altogether lost. 

d. Encourage the class to commit choice 
passages of Scripture for use in personal 
work. Select from each lesson either the 
central verse in the Bible incident, or the best 
passage suggested in the personal work con- 
ference, and have this noted as the key verse 
for that day. Let these passages be called for 
frequently as the work proceeds to make sure 
that they are fixed in memory. As one re- 
peats, let another member locate, by giving 
book, chapter and verse. 

e. An hour will seem a short time for the 
, class session, but if that be the time agreed 

upon, it will be best to adhere to it closely, be- 
ginning and closing promptly, and dividing 
the time as already suggested. 

IV. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE MEMBERS 
OF CLASSES. 

Attendance. 

Make up your mind to have a clean rec- 
ord on the class roll. Miss no session unless 
your Master shows you clearly that you should 
be absent. Be in your place at the hour of 
opening, furnished with your own Bible and 
note book. 

16 


Study . 

1. Of the Bible lesson. 

a. Aim (a) to make it speak to you — 
paraphrase it ; (b) to make it live before you — 
picture it; (c) to make it work in and through 
you — practice it. 

b. Read and re-read it, in the Revised 
Version certainly, in the Greek if you can, 
with pencil and paper to note (a) points on 
which further light is needed, (b) helpful 
thoughts and practical applications. 

c. Then take the outline and go through 
it carefully, aiming to understand each point 
that is made and to answer each question 
asked. 

d. Note what you have thus learned by 
your own study, and in class add the new 
thoughts and lessons brought out there. 

e. Review each study before taking up 
the next one. The best way to do this is to 
tabulate the points from it, as called for in 
the review chart. See page 70. 

2. Of the personal work case. 

a. Always write a clear statement of the 
person’s situation when the case is agreed 
upon in class. 

b. Aim to put yourself in his place. Ask 
yourself (a) what is his real difficulty — often 
quite different from his own statement — the 


17 


disease of which his objections may be merely 
symptoms; (b) what is the truth he needs to 
realize — find and put down some passages 
of Scripture which state this clearly; (c) how 
he can best be approached and entrance to his 
heart won for this truth. The index on page 
123 will often prove helpful in this part of 
the work. 

V. BOOKS THAT SHOULD HELP. 

On Personal Work. 

1. Personal Work, How Organized and 
Accomplished. By C. K. Ober and J. R. 
Mott. 10 cents. Small and concise, but clear, 
comprehensive, stimulating. 

2. Personal Work. By S. M. Sayford. 
75 cents. A full and very readable discussion, 
with many illustrations from life, by one who 
has had great experience, especially with col- 
lege students. 

3. Individual Work for Individuals. By 
H. Clay Trumbull, D. D. 75 cents. By one 
who is best known as the editor of the Sunday 
School Times, but who has also been one of 
the most remarkable personal workers of this 
generation. 

4. How to Bring Men to Christ. By R. 
A. Torrey. 75 cents. Out of large experi- 
ence Mr. Torrey, the superintendent of the 

18 



Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, not only 
offers practical counsel, but gives many Scrip- 
ture passages adapted to different individuals 
and suggests how to use them. 

On this course of study especially . 

1. A copy of the Revised Version. 

2. Rotherham’s Emphasized New Tes- 
tament. $2.00. A very literal translation, 
in which the emphasis of the Greek is shown. 
New light may often be gained from it on the 
meaning of a passage. 

3. A harmony of the gospels has the ad- 
vantage of giving, side by side, or interwoven 
into one narrative, all the gospel accounts of 
any one incident. Stevens & Burton’s Har- 
mony of the Gospels, Sunday school edition, 
$1.00, is a good example of the former kind, 
and Pittenger’s Interwoven Gospels, $1.00, of 
the latter. 

4. The different lives of Christ, by Stalker, 
Edersheim, Farrar, Geikie, and others, treat 
the different incidents studied in the course 
with varying fullness and helpfulness. 
Bruce’s Training of the Twelve takes up fully 
those which relate to the disciples. Among 
the many commentaries on the gospels, West- 
cott’s volume on John in The Bible (or Speak- 
er’s) Commentary is especially illuminating. 

On interviews which introduce parables 


19 


Trench’s Notes on the Parables or similar 
works by Bruce, Taylor, or Arnot will be found 
suggestive. 

5. Kephart’s chart of The Public Life of 
Christ presents graphically to the eye the 
order and locality of the events in our Lord’s 
public ministry. A copy might well be hung 
up in the class room and used in the review 
lessons. It follows the order of events given 
in Andrews’s Life of Our Lord, which is the 
best authority on questions relating to the 
harmony and on all critical points. 

VI. THE SPIRIT WHICH MUST ANIMATE 
BOTH TEACHER AND STUDENT. 

The Leader's Instructions. 

“For I have given you an example that ye 
also should do as I have done to you. Verily, 
verily, I say unto you, a servant is not greater 
than his lord; neither one that is sent greater 
than he that sent him. If ye know these 
things, blessed are ye if ye do them.” John 
13: 15-17, R. V. 

The Student's Training. 

“Sanctify them in the truth; thy word is 
truth. As thou didst send me into the world, 
even so sent I them into the world.” John 
17: 1 7, 18, R. V. 


20 



The Result . 

“I can do all things in him that strengthen- 
ed me.” Phil. 4: 13, R. V. 

(Jesus) “laid his hands upon his eyes; 

And he ... . saw all things clearly.” 

Mark 8 : 25, R. V. 

Look around to see the need. Matt. 9 : 35- 
37. Then pray (verse 38) in order that you 
also may be empowered and sent (Matt. 10: 
1, 5)- Not the twelve only, but the seventy 
also were thus prepared and sent. Luke 10 :2, 
3. The fields are white. John 4: 35. 

Look ahead to see the issue. Prov. 1 1 130. 
“He that winneth souls is wise.” No other 
life work compares with this. Dan. 12: 3. 
“They that be wise (margin, the teachers) shall 
shine as the brightness of the firmament; and 
they that turn many to righteousness as the 
stars forever and ever.” John 4: 36. “He 
that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth 
fruit unto life eternal.” 

Look up to feel the motive power. 2 Cor. 
5:14. “The love of Christ constraineth us” 
— shuts us in and impels us forward. Not the 
sense of duty, not the desire for men’s ap- 
proval, not the determination to achieve suc- 
cess, but the love of Christ, — His toward us, 
realized until it quickens ours toward Him and 
toward those for whom He came to minister 


21 


/ 


and to give His life a ransom. Matt. 20:28. 

A college student shows what is needed when 
he writes: “I believe the reason our Training 
Classes did not result in more actual conver- 
sions is because of the lack ( 1 ) of a deep spir- 
itual life on the part of the members and (2) 
of a profound conviction of the need and 
value of personal work and that they are the 
ones to do it.” 

The general secretary of a city association 
shows how this need is to be supplied : “Nearly 
every case considered in our class has resulted 
in conversion to Christ. Twenty young men 
have been dealt with, and seven of them are 
now doing good active service in their 
churches. Haphazard work counts for noth- 
ing. We must be led of the Spirit. Victories 
are not won while we. are persuading men, but 
previously, in the secret chamber of interces- 
sion. As Gethsemane preceded Calvary, so 
there can be no soul-winning without soul- 
agony and prayer.” 


22 


“What you are speaks so loud I cannot hear what 
you say.” — Emerson. 

“No exhortation to a good life that does not put 
behind it some truth as profound as eternity can 
seize and move the conscience .” — Phillips Brooks . 


“ % am the map, the truth, anti the life.” 

“ Come pe after |Be, anh f mill mafcc pou to become 
fi£ber£ of men.” — Jesus. 





. THE PERIOD OF PREPARATION. 


December 5 B. C. to January 27 A. D. 

About thirty years (Luke 3: 23). 

From birth to baptism and temptation. 

Chiefly in Nazareth of Galilee. 

A time of obscurity, study, development, 
patience, self-discipline. 






/ 

















V 


















/ 


* 







































STUDY I. 


PRELIMINARY. 

1. Each member of the class should care- 
fully read the introductory portion of this 
pamphlet, pages 9 to 22, especially the sug- 
gestions beginning on page 16. 

2. The leader may take a few moments at 
the beginning to make sure that the aims and 
methods of the class work are clearly under- 
stood by all. Then enroll the members, ask- 
ing each to fill out a blank like the following, 
or some modification of it: — 

(1) Name and address. (2) Of what 
church are you a member? (3) Have you had 
any experience in personal Christian work, 
either with other Christians or with the un- 
converted? (4) What has seemed to you the 
chief hindrance in the way of your doing such 
work successfully? (5) Are you specially in- 
terested now in any one whom you desire to 
help spiritually? If so, write what you feel 
free to say about the case, and state whether 
you would be glad to have it mentioned in the 
class, without personal details, for prayer and 
conference. 


27 


These blanks will be treated as confidential 
by the leader, and will aid him in planning the 
work of the class. 

3. Call attention to the helpful books men- 
tioned on page 18 and state any arrangements 
that have been made for their use by the class. 

4. Then take up the study that follows, 
working it out with the class as each might 
do alone in his own room. 


THE GENERAL PREPARATION OF THE 
PERSONAL WORKER. 

Luke 2: 39-52. 


What He Needs to Know and to Be. 

The narrow sphere a fitting school for the 
wider one. 

1. The popular impression of Nazareth. John 
i : 46. 

2. The lessons learned in such a fitting school 
from — 

(1) Nature. 

The natural scenery in which Jesus 
grew up. See descriptions of Nazareth and its sur- 
roundings in Bible dictionary or any life of Christ. 

His love for mountains, birds, flowers. 
The spiritual truths they signified to 
Him. Recall some illustrations from His teaching. 


28 


/ ^ 


(2) The home. Parents poor. See Luke 

2: 24. 

The mother’s character. Luke 1 : 45. 
See its reflection in the “Magnificat.” Luke 1 : 
46 - 55 . 

The father’s duty. Deut. 11: 19. 

Jesus’ place in a home full of brothers 
and sisters. Mark 6: 3. 

(3) The shop. 

His trade. Mark 6 : 3. Indication in the 
same verse that Joseph was not then alive. Perhaps 
the family support had rested largely upon Jesus. 

What traits of character would this trade 

cultivate ? 

A school in which to study human na- 
ture, and develop sympathy with all who toil. 

Study Holman Hunt’s painting of 
“Christ in the Carpenter Shop.” What does it sug- 
gest to you? Do you agree with it? 

(4) The synagogue. 

For His custom see Luke 4: 16. 

Here doubtless He had access to the 
rolls of the Old Testament Scriptures; to what profit 
is afterward apparent. 

In the synagogue school Jewish boys 
were drilled in the Old Testament, beginning at six 
years old with the book of Leviticus. 

The spirit of His study is evident in the 
temple scene. Luke 2 : 46, 47. Examine carefully the 
words applied to His actions in these verses and 
their order. 

(5) Temple visits. Probably every year after 
He was twelve. 

How must His heart have been stirred 
there as He saw the Roman soldier? the sacrificial 


29 



worship ? and heard the teaching of scribes and 
Pharisees ? 

Patient and wholesome development. 

1. Threefold, vs. 40, 52. Mind, body, spirit (see 
margin). 

The agencies used for the development of 

each? 

Social influence following spiritual growth. 

2. His conviction as to His life work. 

(1) Outlook over its field of operation from 
hill-top back of His home. 

(2) How much realized as early as twelve? 

v. 49- 

If Mary had told Him of the events con- 
nected with His birth, what bearing would this have 
on His words to her here? 

“A child is to be found at his father’s.” 
— Godet. (See Revised Version and Rotherham’s 
note on this verse.) 

(3) Earthly ties not unheeded (see, later, 
John 19: 26, 27), but treated as subordinate to rela- 
tionship to God. vs. 48, 49. 

So, later, John 2: 4. What is our true 
relationship, mother and son or disciple and Lord? 
Mark 3: 21, 22, 31-35. Those who believe and serve, 
not those who hinder, even in love, His closest rela- 
tives. 

(4) Obeying and serving while waiting for 
the summons to the wider field. 

What might make Him eager for it to 

come? 

Study Hints : 

1. Why have we such meagre record of the first 
thirty years of Jesus’ life? 


30 


2. Fill in some details in this picture of Jesus’ 
quiet years by reading Stalker’s Life of Christ, sec- 
tions ii to 24, or G. Campbell Morgan’s Hidden 
Years at Nazareth. 

3. Draw lessons for us from — 

(1) The humble surroundings in which Jesus 
grew up. 

(2) His long years of patient, faithful, hum- 
ble service. 

(3) His mastery of the Old Testament Scrip- 
tures. 

(4) His earliest recorded words. 

What encouragement here for those who 
seem to have been born to disadvantages? 

What indication as to how one can find 
the life-work God has planned for him? 


STUDY II. 


THE SPECIAL PREPARATION OF THE PER- 
SONAL WORKER. 

Matt. 3:13-17; 4,1-11; Mark 1:9-13; Luke 3: 21, 22; 4:1-13. 

Voluntary Devotion to God’s Service. Anointing by 
the Spirit. Victory over Personal 
Temptations. 

Beginning a public career. 

How did He know the time had come? 

Where does He go and how first appear? If a man 
has something in him the world needs, he need not 
advertise. 


31 


The first step — anointing. 

1. His baptism not one of repentance for remis- 
sion of sins (Luke 3: 3), but of consecration to a life 
and death fulfilling all righteousness (Matt. 3: 15). 

2. Taken in prayer. For what? 

3. Accompanied by — 

(1) The descent of the Spirit. To abide. 
John 1 : 32. 

(2) The testimony of the Father’s love and 
pleasure. Why? See John 10: 17, 18. 

4. Baptism in the Holy Spirit essential for all of 
Christ’s witnesses. Acts 1 : 8. How is it to be ob- 
tained? Acts 5: 32. Lessons for us from Christ’s 
anointing. 

The second step — testing. 

1. Met under the leading of the Spirit. 

Never to be sought; but, under like conditions, 
never to be shunned. 

Does this shed any light on the last petition in 
the prayer He afterwards taught? Matt. 6: 13, R. V. 

2. At the threshold of His life work, and in 
connection with an absorbing consciousness of its 
isolation, its physical and mental suffering, its wil- 
derness experiences, its contact with wild beasts in 
human form. 

Was this Jesus’ first temptation? His last? 

Why did Satan assault Him so severely now? 

When may we expect similar assaults? 

3. The subtle approach. 

What three terms are applied here to “the evil 
one”? Their significance? 

Quoting Scripture and holding out false 
promises. 

Notice his three suggestions: — 


32 


(1) Use your powers to satisfy yourself, 
not give yourself to feed the world. 

(2) Suddenly convince by a spectacle, not pa- 
tiently win by a holy life and an atoning death. 

(3) Reach your end by compromise rather 
than by the cross. 

How are these three still, in modified forms* 
his allurements to Jesus’ followers? 

4. The complete victory. 

(1) Realize the source of the temptation. 

How can we be sure from whom the sug- 
gestion comes? 

(2) Meet it with the truth. 

a. God’s words are the real “staff of 
life.” Compare John 4: 34. 

b. Protection and security are found 
only in the path of obedience and trust. 

c. God has exclusive claims upon wor- 
ship and service. 

(3) Satan’s departure is for a season only. 
Watch against his return. 

5. The special temptations with which Satan 
assails the Christian worker. 

(1) What are yours likely to be? Fore- 
warned, forearmed. 

(2) Gains from the contest, a. Sympathy 
and helpfulness. Heb. 2: 18. b. Power for ser- 
vice. Luke 4: 14. 


The closing moments of this hour may well be 
spent in prayer, asking each member of the class to 
give utterance to the desire of his heart. 







II. THE PERIOD OF INTRODUCTION, 


February 27 A. D. to March 28 A. D. 


About a year. From the enlistment of the first dis- 
ciples to the imprisonment of John the Baptist. 

In Galilee, Judsea, Samaria. 

Introducing Himself here and there while John the 
Baptist’s work is still preparing the way for His 
more active ministry. 


STUDY III. 


WITH THE FIRST DISCIPLES, MEN WHO 
ARE FOLLOWING THE LIGHT 
THEY HAVE. 

John 1:29-51. 

Beginning Work. Where ? With Whom? How? 
The Results to be Anticipated. 

The first act of His ministry. 

Not sermon or miracle, but personal enlistment 
of disciples. 

Was this accidental or intentional on Christ’s 
part? See John 15: 16, 27. 

Contrast this quiet beginning with John the Bap- 
tist’s operations. Notice Jesus’ first appearance here. 
John 1 : 26. 

The men chosen. 

Where did He go to find them? Why? 

Where may we? 

Where did the Jews expect Him to seek them? 
Why did He not? 

What kind of men were they? 

Their enlistment. 

1. The agents used. 

(1) John the Baptist, the preacher of right- 
eousness and of repentance. 


37 


The witness pointing to the light. 

John i : 7. 

His conception of Jesus, v. 29. How 

obtained ? 

What other conceptions of Jesus did he 
have? John 1: 33, 34; Matt. 3: 12. Notice how he 
adapted his words to those whom he addressed. 
Lesson from this? 

The effect of his first testimony, vs. 29- 
34. How did his second testimony differ? vs. 35, 
36. Its effect ? 

(2) The enlisted men themselves. Andrew 
to bring Simon; John to bring James (?) (see hint 
of this in verse 41) ; Philip to bring Nathanael. 

Both Greek and Hebrew names here. A 
representative group. 

On what was their faith based? 

(3) He Himself finds and calls Philip. 

v. 43- 

2. The spirit shown. 

(1) Encouragement. Was Jesus ever too 
busy to talk to people? 

Quick ear for the footsteps that follow 

after Him. 

He opens the conversation, draws out 
an expression of their interest, invites them to Him- 
self. 

(2) Openness, v. 39, R. V., “Come, and ye 
shall see.” Repeated, v. 46. 

The best advice for all who doubt and 

question. 

The subject of the interview, as inferred 
from its result, v. 41. 

How does it illustrate John’s own words 
in John 1 : 14. 


38 



Their future. 

1. The reader of hearts, vs. 42, 47, 48; Psa. 139: 
1-6, 23, 24. 

2. The Maker of men. 

Intercourse with Him makes the Simon 
(hearkener) of to-day the Cephas (stone) of the 
future; the guileless Israelite the witness of the 
glory and triumphs of the new Kingdom (v. 51). 

The Son of Man unites earth with heaven. 
Compare Gen. 28: 12. He is Himself “the way.” 

Study Hints : 

1. What does each evangelist mention next after 
the temptation? 

2. Give any reasons why John is the only his- 
torian of the early ministry at the Jordan, at Cana 
and in Judaea. 

3. Why do we believe he is giving his own expe- 
rience in this chapter? Does he ever name himself 
in his own book? 

4. Give some of the practical suggestions for per- 
sonal workers of which this incident is full, and tell 
which come home to you with closest personal appli- 
cation. Notice especially what is to be learned from 

(1) the place where Jesus found His first followers; 

(2) the testimony of John the Baptist; (3) the em- 
phasis Jesus laid on what these followers might be - 
come; (4) the example of Andrew and Philip. 


At the close of this study have reports from all 
the class as to the personal work each is undertaking 
to do, and assign one case to be the subject of con- 
ference and prayer next time. Follow this plan reg- 
ularly hereafter. See pages 15 and 17. 


39 


STUDY IV. 


WITH NICODEMUS, ONE WITH WHOM 
KNOWLEDGE AND POSITION ARE 
ONLY HINDRANCES TO FAITH. 

John 3:1-15. 


The Fundamental Truths to he Emphasized in 
Personal Work. 


The connection. 


i. What makes this interview of the deepest 
interest ? 


2. Of what statement found near the close of 
chapter 2 is it a result? Of what an illustration? 

The inquirer. 


1. His character, as shown in this interview and 
the two other passages in which John mentions him. 

2. What did his coming to Jesus with such words 
upon his lips prove concerning — 


(1) The effect of Jesus’ miracles? 

(2) His own openness to truth? 

3. What was the spirit of his question in v. 
in v. 9? 



4. What use of pronouns suggests that he spoke 
as a representative of a class? 


5. Who now are like him in believing in God, 
but in Jesus only as a teacher, rejecting the super- 
natural because they cannot understand the “how”? 


40 


/ 


The Divine Teacher. 

1. Totally unaffected by the approbation of men 
in high position. 

2. Starts with fundamental principle, without 
the recognition of which all conversation would be 
fruitless. 

3. Fits His words in every case to answer Nico- 
demus’s thought, and leads him from “fleshly” to 
“spiritual” things. How? 

4. Shows that the explanation he seeks is beyond 
his capacity to receive, and that He only whose being 
is still more mysterious (v. 13) fully understands it. 

5. Reiterates the fundamental truth with which 
He began; illustrates from nature and from Scrip- 
ture ; applies it personally. How do His illustrations 
illuminate and impress the teaching? 

6. Crowns the interview with the complementary 
truth: The Spirit’s part to regenerate; man’s part 
to believe. 

Point out in turn the verses in which these points 
appear. 

Study Hints : 

1. Where did John get his account of this inter- 
view ? 

2. What indicates that he was in Jerusalem at 
this time? What indicates that he had fuller ac- 
quaintance with Nicodemus than the other evan- 
gelists ? 

3. What emphasis is placed on the two great 
truths of this lesson by their presentation by Jesus at 
this point in His career? Give some passages in 
which they were taught by His followers after His 
death. 

4. What is the best course for Jesus’ followers 


41 


to follow in dealing with the philosophical and argu- 
mentative? See v. ii, where Jesus seems to include 
His disciples with Himself in the pronoun “we.” 

5. What does Jesus claim for Himself in this in- 
terview? Should any follower claim less? 


STUDY V. 

v 


WITH THE WOMAN OF SYCHAR, WHO, 
BOTH BY HEREDITY AND BY HER 
LIFE, SEEMS OUTSIDE THE 
PALE OF RELIGION. 

John 4:1-42. 

The Sphere of Personal Work. Who are to be In- 
cluded and How Are They to be Brought In? 

The period. 

1. What indication of time in the story? v. 35. 

2. How had Jesus spent the eight months since 
the first Passover? Why follow John’s footsteps? 
The meeting-place. 

1. Why “must needs pass through Samaria”? 

2. Common ground. The well of their common 
ancestor. Gen. 48: 22. 

3. Unconventional but favorable hour and place. 

The woman seeking water for herself. 

1. Parched by drought. 

Isolated from her sex. 


42 



Indifferent. Prejudiced. Argumentative. 

Sectarian prejudices unquenched by evil living. 

Show how each appears in the conversation. 

2. Beginning to thirst. Still earthly minded, but 
inquiring. 

How shown? 

Confessing the truth of His statements about 
herself, but changing the subject from the personal 
to the theological. 

3. Drinking. 

Note her change of tone as her estimate of the 
Saviour enlarges. 

Forgetting her earthly errand in her posses- 
sion of new truth. 

She called it “well,” to draw from (vs. 11, 12), 
but found it “spring,” naturally outflowing (vs. 6, 
14). (See R. V. margin.) 

The Saviour seeking worshippers for the 
Father. 

1. His spirit. 

(1) How does His conduct agree with His 
statement in vs. 32-3 4? 

What unfavorable circumstances did not 
hinder Him? How far should similar ones influence 
us? 

(2) Loving the sinner. Indications that His 
face and His manner impressed the woman and 
opened the way for His words? 

2. His method. 

(1) A private talk. How essential in this 

case? 

(2) A natural introduction. Asks a favor, 
awakens curiosity. 

(3) Offers a free gift. 


43 


Shows its eternal superiority to all that 
the world offers. In what respects? 

(4) Arouses conviction of her need. 

Lays bare her sin searchingly but deli- 
cately. 

(5) Centers her thought upon Himself. 

Does not ignore her objection about wor- 
ship, but uses it as a stepping-stone to higher truth. 

Presents Himself plainly. First out- 
spoken declaration of His Messiahship. 

3. The great truths He taught to such a woman 

(1) About the nature of God. 

(2) About worship. 

(3) About the living water that can quench 
the universal heart-thirst and the way to receive it. 

(4) About Himself. 

The Results. 

1. To the woman. 

Faith leading at once to testimony. 

Note her extreme statement, v. 29. He who 
knows the worst about us knows it all. 

2. To her townspeople. 

What great truth were they the first to learn? 
v. 42. 

What harvest did Philip later reap on the field 
where Jesus now sows? See Acts 8. 

Study Hints : 

1. How does this incident strongly emphasize the 
value of personal work? 

2. How can we cultivate the Master’s sympathy 
for those upon whom the world looks down? 

3. How are they to be won? 

4. What is the key to success? v. 34. 


44 


III. THE PERIOD OF WIDENING INFLUENCE. 


April 28 A. D. to March 29 A. D. 


About a year. From the imprisonment of John the 
Baptist to his death. From the settlement in 
Capernaum to the feeding of the multitude. 

In Galilee and across the sea. 

Great activity. Constantly before the public. Deal- 
ing personally with individuals even when pri- 
vate interviews cannot be had. Deeds of mercy 
and power, followed by spiritual teaching. 




. 




















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STUDY VI. 


WITH PHARISEES, WHO CRITICISE HIS 
FOLLOWERS. 


Matt. 12:1-21; Mark 2:23-28; 3:1-6; Luke 6: 1-11. 


The Worker’s Attitude Toward Criticism and Those 
Who Offer It. 


The season — 

I Of the year. v. I. 

2. In Jesus’ career. 

For the first break on the Sabbath question see 
John s : io, 16, 18, etc. 

Spies on His track. Mark 2 : 6, 16 ; Luke 5 : 17. 

The critics. 

Determined to find fault. 

Criticising Jesus to His disciples (Mark 2: 16), 
and His disciples to Jesus (Mark 2: 18, 24). 

Their real spirit. John 5: 18; Matt. 12: 14. 

Foiled on one Sabbath, they set a trap on another. 
Luke 6: 6, 7. 

Their standard of judgment not the Scriptures, 
but “the traditions of men.” Straining at legal 
righteousness, they called the plucking reaping, the 
rubbing threshing. 

By what standards do modern critics of Christians 
pronounce judgment? 


The criticised. 

Criticism a poor meal for hungry men. 

Their act expressly permitted in the Law. Deut. 
23: 25. 

No need to speak in their own defence. 

The Lord of all. 

1. To the critics. 

(1) Show how He — 

a. Meets them on their own ground. 
Quotes example of their greatest king and their 
weekly worship. How specially applicable? 

b. Points out their error in their fail- 
ure to understand God’s purposes in His ordinances. 
What is it? 

c. Sets the spirit above the letter, the 
Lord above the temple. 

d. Shows that to Him alone both they 
and the disciples are accountable. 

e. Reminds them of former lesson not 
learned. Matt. 9: 10, 13. 

f. Exposes their own hypocrisy and sel- 
fishness. vs. 11, 12. 

g. The look for hardening hearts. Mark 
3: 5. To be like His, what must it always ex- 
press ? 

h. Comes to an issue, yet avoids any 
work that might afford pretext for arrest, v. 13. 

(2) In which of these steps are we to follow 
Him in meeting the critical now? 

2. To the criticised. 

The Friend in need. Prompt and powerful 
in defence. 

Always best to rest the case with Him. 

48 


The lessons. 



Help instead of hinder. 

The Sabbath a day not for selfish license, but to 
use under the Lord’s eye in doing good and saving 
life. 

Be fearless of prejudiced criticism. This scene is 
really the threshold to the crucifixion. 

Avoid occasion for just criticism. 

The One on whom to fix the eye. vs. 18-21. 

“ Men may misjudge thy aim, 

Men may not praise thy name, 

Think they have cause to blame, 

Say thou art wrong. 

Hold on thy quiet way, 

Heed not what men may say, 

Christ is the judge, not they — 

Fear not; be strong.” 

How are we to meet those who point to the incon- 
sistencies of Christians as a reason for not follow- 
ing Christ themselves? 


STUDY VII. 


WITH JOHN THE BAPTIST, SEEKING 
RELIEF FROM DOUBTS. 

Matt. 11:2-19; Luke 7:18-35. 

The Facts of Divine Power and Grace That Answer 
to the Questionings of Hard Experience. 

The situation. 

1. Jesus. 

How engaged? The report that drew out the 
inquiry. See Luke 7: 17. 


49 


What kind of men now are likely to attract the 
puzzled and disheartened? 

2. John. 

(1) His character. Christ’s own estimate, 
vs. 24-28. 

What made him so great? Notice 
Christ’s quotation of Malachi 3 : 1, and His change 
of pronoun. 

Why outranked by lesser ones in the 
Kingdom? What does this suggest as to our privi- 
leges ? 

(2) His situation now. 

Where? Why? How like, but greater 
than Bonnivard at Chillon? 

A great oak bending before a mighty 
tempest. Already several months in prison and ap- 
parently forgotten. 

The question. 

1. The cause. Was it — 

The compulsory inactivity ? Why specially 
hard for John? 

The inscrutable providence? The old problem 
of Psa. 94: 3, 4. 

The apparent neglect? In spite of Luke 4: 18. 

Disappointment in Christ’s course? See Luke 
3: 1 6, 17. Even though he knew John 3: 28-30. 

Has any one now as good reason for seeking 
further evidence of Jesus’ Messiahship? 

2. The course. 

(1) The right place to bring all doubts. 

(2) Asking a fundamental question. What 
does it show as to — 

a. What he does believe? 

b. What he realizes? Why no word of 
personal complaint or petition? 


50 


J 


“Another” in Luke 7 : 19 means literally “a 
different one.” 

The answer. 

1. The convincing evidence. 

(1) Facts, not arguments. Things (a) seen, 
and (b) heard. 

(2) Weightier than the Baptist’s own testi- 
mony. See John 5: 36. Why? 

(3) The climax, — “the gospel to the poor.” 
Meeting the soul’s need a higher work than healing 
the body or raising the dead. 

(4) Such works had been prophesied of the 
Messiah. Isa. 29: 18, 19; 35: 5; 61: 1. 

They were not merely proofs of Mes- 
siahship but types of the work of salvation. 

2. The way to use it. 

(1) In a sympathetic spirit. No surprise or 
blame, but regard and protection. Why did He 
speak vs. 24-28? Yet notice the warning of v. 23, 
where the Greek for “offended” is literally “scandal- 
ized.” 

(2) Centers attention upon it. 

(3) Treats it as sufficient. No vision or 
special interview granted even to John. 

(4) Shows the true secret of blessedness, 
v. 23. Not change of circumstances, but confi- 
dence in Christ. 

“ Stone walls do not a prison make, 

Nor iron bars a cage.” 

Apply these points to our own contact with sincere 
doubters. 

What is always better than argument? 

To what evidence may we point? 

What words in Luke 7: 22 are commands to us 
also? 


5i 


Jesus’ application of the incident. 

Press into the Kingdom of God. Matt, n : 12. 
Compare Luke 16: 16. 

Your treatment of the evidence shows whether 
you are wise or not. Matt. 11 : 15, 19; Luke 7: 35. 
And whether you are repentant or not. Luke 7: 

29, 30. 

Beware of “finding” in Jesus anything which you 
make a stumbling block over which to fall. Luke 
7: 23. You must build on Him or fall over Him. 
1 Peter 2: 7, 8. 

Woe to the gospel-hardened (Matt. 11: 20-24); 
but welcome, rest, instruction, and partnership in ser- 
vice to the heavy-laden who show the spirit of babes 
(Matt. 11 : 25-30). 

What gracious truths to banish puzzling doubts ! 

The result. 

Of the return of the messengers to John we are 
not told, but we may infer the outcome from Matt. 
14: 12. 


STUDY VIII. 


WITH SELF-RIGHTEOUS SIMON THE PHAR- 
ISEE AND THE LOVING PENITENT 
WOMAN. 

Luke 7:36-50. 

Adapting Truth and Treatment to the Opposite 
Needs of Different Individuals. 

An incident that tests the affections rather than the 
intellect. St. Gregory speaks of it as “more fit to be 
wept over than commented on.” 


52 



The meal. 

1. Table customs of Christ’s day that throw light 
on this scene. See Luke’s account, in chapters n 
and 14, of two other meals in Pharisees’ homes. 

2. How does this scene differ from the similar 
one in Matt. 26: 6-13? 

The host. 

1. Why had he invited Jesus? How had he 
treated his guest? For the ordinary courtesies in 
which he failed see Gen. 18:4; Ex. 18:7; Psa. 23 : 5. 
How explain his conduct? 

His attitude toward Jesus? toward the penitent 
sinner ? 

How did he resemble the man whose picture 
Jesus afterwards drew in Luke 18: 9-12? 

3. How do people now show the same attitude to- 
ward Christ? toward the fallen? 

The intruder. 

1. What emboldened her to come? May it not 
have been in response to Matt. 1 1 : 28-30, which had 
just been spoken? 

2. How welcome to Jesus ! The first to seek Him 
not because of bodily suffering but of sin. One who 
comes not to get, but to give. 

3. The evidences of a renewed heart. 

What were they, and how did they differ from 
the usual conduct of sinful women? 

The guest. 

1. Why did He accept an invitation from such a 
man as Simon? 

2. His use of His opportunity. 


53 


(1) With the Pharisee. 

Reads his heart and answers his thought, 
perhaps his look. 

Calls him by name, and fixes his atten- 
tion. 

Treats him courteously, but searchingly. 
Trace His method and show how He — 

a. Approaches him along the line of his 
own moral bankruptcy. 

b. Secures his approval of general prin- 
ciple, then makes personal application. 

c. Holds the mirror up to his own con- 
duct in the contrasting actions of the despised 
woman. 

d. Endeavors to awaken the conscious- 
ness of sin that he may seek its pardon and love the 
Pardoner. 

(2) With the penitent woman. 

Shows Himself to be more than “a 

prophet.” 

Able not only to read but to change 

hearts. 

Regarded human need and longing, but 
not human prejudices or criticisms. 

Gave assurance (vs. 48, 50) of pardon 
already bestowed. 

The results. 

1. For Simon? 

2. For the other guests? 

3. For the penitent sinner. 

“ Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin; 

The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.” 


54 



Study Hints: 

1. How do the two debtors in the parable, the 
two actors in the incident, represent all debtors to 
God? 

2. See how Christ uses the idea of this parable, 
with skilful adaptation, to teach a different lesson in 
Matt. 18 : 23-35. 

3. What does the incident teach us about — 

(1) A Christian worker’s social engagements? 

(2) The best way to discern the hearts of 
those around us? 

(3) How to fight the tendency to self-right- 
eousness in our own hearts? 


STUDY IX. 


WITH MEN SO BITTER IN THEIR OPPOSI- 
TION TO CHRIST THAT THEY PER- 
VERT THE TRUTH AND RESORT 
TO SLANDER. 

Matt. 12:22-37; Mark 3:19-30. 

Showing What God Regards as Sinning Against the 
Holy Spirit and What Must Be Its Outcome. 

The undeniable effects. 

Sight and speech follow deliverance from demon- 
possession. How does the miracle stand as a pic- 
ture of the Spirit’s work for the soul of man? 

The impression made upon the populace. 


55 


Hatred’s false charge. 


The men who make it. By what steps have they 
reached their present position? See Luke 7: 30; 
John 5: 16-18; and recall Study 6. 

On hand now to carry out a murderous purpose. 
Matt. 12: 14; Mark 3: 22. 

Why resort to the circulation of a slanderous 
charge ? 

Why ignore the evident facts, speech and sight, and 
attack the more mysterious one, the eviction of the 
demon ? 

How does their conduct prove their own intimate 
acquaintance with the “god of dung-beetles”? 

What more subtle, but no more reasonable, posi- 
tions are taken by modern opponents of Christianity ? 

What are the causes of such opposition to Christ 
and His work? 

Plain speaking to perverted men. 

1. Christ summons them to face the truth. Mark 
3 : 23. 

2. He shows them that their position is — 

(1) Unreasonable. 

By reference to their national history, 
and by prophecy of its future. Matt. 12: 25. 

There is an entire absence of motive, on 
their presumption, v. 26. 

Its logical conclusion makes them call 
devil-possessed those who shall judge them. v. 27; 
Luke 22: 30. 

(2) Precisely opposite to truth. 

The facts show that the Kingdom of God 
is upon you, though, alas ! not in you. v. 28. 

56 


The strong man’s property is despoiled, 
because he has been bound, v. 29. 

You are his, if not Mine. v. 30. 

(3) Blasphemous and sinful. 

Ascribing these works to devilish powers 
is blasphemy against their author, the Spirit of God 
(v. 31), which is an eternal and unpardonable sin 
(v. 32), committed by men who persist in perverting 
the truth (v. 33), show their devilish parentage and 
evil hearts (v. 34) by their utterances (v. 35), by 
which, as revealing the heart, men shall be judged 
(vs. 36, 37). 

3. He prophesies the outcome of their course. 
Your hatred will culminate in the one most 

conclusive sign of My Messiahship. vs. 38-40. 

Your privileges will be your condemnation, vs. 
41, 42. 

My work for this generation, if it admits Me 
not into its emptied house, will only prove its ruin, 
vs. 43-45. How fulfilled for that generation? 

How true of every one who persists in reject- 
ing light? 

4. Then shows the contrasting picture. 

The blessedness of those who hear and obey. 

v. 50. 

Study Hints: 

1. The course His disciples are to follow with 
such opponents. See Matt. 10: 24-33- Probably 
spoken in direct allusion to this incident. 

2. How do those who desire pardon, but fear they 
have sinned against the Holy Ghost, differ from those 
described in this study? What assurances may be 
given to such? 


57 


3. Why is the sin here described an eternal and 
unpardonable one? Notice that such a course is 
fatal because of its action on him who follows it, 
paralyzing his moral nature, blinding him so that 
he cannot see holiness and grace. 


/ 


58 


IV. THE PERIOD OF MISUNDERSTANDING 
AND OPPOSITION. 


April to October 29 A. D. 


About six months. From the feeding of the multi- 
tude to the visit to the Feast of Tabernacles. 

In the outlying regions to the north and east of Gali- 
lee. 

Devoting Himself chiefly to His disciples. Singling 
out receptive individuals wherever He can find 
them. 





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I 











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1 











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STUDY X. 


WITH SIMON PETER, WHEN HE TESTIFIES 
TO JESUS AS THE SON OF GOD BUT 
REJECTS HIS ATONING DEATH. 


Matt. 16:13-28; Mark 8: 27-38; 9:1; Luke 9:18-27. 

Presenting Jesus as Both Divine Lord and Atoning 
Saviour and Calling Men to Deny Self 
and Follow Him. 

The spirit of the times. 

1. His claims rejected once more by the nation’s 
leaders, He devotes Himself to His disciples. 

2. After Matt. 15: 1-14 even Galilee unsafe. 

3. Still working and teaching, but with a sad 
heart (Mark 7: 34; 8: 12), and with injunctions to 
silence (Mark 7: 36; 8: 26, 30; 9: 9). Why? 

The training class. 

1. The need of it. Matt. 16: 5-12. 

2. The place of meeting. How suitable? 

3. The preparation. Luke 9: 18. 

The topic. Verse 13. 

The term He applies to Himself. Why? 

1. The popular opinions. 

61 


What in His character and conduct may have 
given rise to each? 

What was present in the popular verdict? 
What lacking? 

What are popular opinions now? 

How much does Jesus care for what people 
think of Him? 

2. The conviction of one disciple, v. 16. 

(1) What it involved. 

(2) Haw it had been obtained. 

(3) Steps through which He had reached it. 
See John 1: 41; Luke 5: 8; Matt. 14: 30; John 
6 : 68 . 

(4) What it leads to. Blessedness (v. 17) ; 
usefulness (vs. 18, 19). 

Were such promises for Peter alone? 
See Matt. 18: 18. 

How far is the stewardship of the “keys” 
which admit men to the kingdom entrusted to all 
confessors who have the Holy Spirit? See John 
20: 23 and Luke 24: 33, 36. 

3. The truth yet to be learned. Mark 8: 31. 

(1) Previous intimations of it. John 2: 19; 
3: 14; 6: 51, 56; Matt. 10: 38; 12: 40. 

Now, after confession of His divinity, 
and in connection with the object lesson of His 
glory (Matt. 17: 1-8), to be taught openly. 

(2) The well-meant but presumptuous denial 
of it by the disciple who has just been praised. 

(3) The stern rebuke. Intended for Peter 
only? See Mark 8: 33. 

A wile of the devil. See Eph. 6: 11, 12. 

From foundation stone to stumbling 
block. Matt. 16: 23. 


62 



The cause of failure now (Matt. 16: 23) ; 
of success before (Matt. 16: 17). 

Notice that Mark, whose information 
came from Peter, reports this rebuke, but not the 
words of approval and promise spoken just before. 
Why? See also in the very beginning of Peter’s 
first epistle how fully he learned the lesson he was 
here taught. 

(4) The promise of a glorious vision for some 
who are now dull scholars. Mark 9: 1. 

What does this double scene teach us as 
to how we may help those who have but partial views 
of Christ and His mission? 

The application to all. Mark 8: 34-38. 

Even in His retirement, the multitude never far 
from His thoughts and His presence, v. 34. 

The procession of cross-bearers following behind 
their Lord. See Gal. 5 : 24. 

Deny self, — that is, my own mastership. See 
Matt. 26: 34, and Titus 2: 12, where same Greek 
verb is used as here. 

Confess Christ, — that is, His Lordship over me. 

Life to be spent for Him and His Gospel; not 
hoarded for self and therefore forfeited. Compare 
Luke 17: 33 and John 12: 25; and see Rotherham’s 
foot-note on Matt. 2: 20. 

Place Christ’s estimate on this world (vs. 36, 37) ; 
and live in the light of the glorious coming age 
(v. 38). 

Upon whom especially should these truths be 
pressed home, and how are we to do it? 


63 


STUDY XI. 


WITH THOSE WHO THRONGED THE TEM- 
PLE COURTS AT THE FEAST OF 
TABERNACLES. 

John 7: 14-52. 


Testing Men to Ascertain Their Willingness to 
Believe, Their Thirst for Spiritual 
Life and Power. 

The place and the time. 

How does this appearance differ from His former 
and His final appearances in Jerusalem? v. 14. 

How does it show His courage and also His dis- 
cretion? vs. 7, 10. 

The Lord’s test. Verse 17. 

His application of it. 

1. To the multitude, vs. 21-24. 

Refers to the “sign” He had given on His last 
visit. See John 5. 

Shows the injustice of their bitterness against 
Him, — the danger of judging merely by appearances. 

2. To the Jews. vs. 16-19, 25-28. 

Shows them Himself, unselfish in aim, true in 
teaching, righteous in dealing. 

Shows them themselves, every one unrighteous, 
and seeking to kill the God-sent One. 

Their reception of Him due to what? v. 28. 

64 



3- To the whole assembly, vs. 33, 34. 

Your time of opportunity is short. 

Your unlikeness to Me will separate you from 
Me forever. 

4. To the whole world, vs. 37, 38. 

The custom which may have suggested the 
figure. See Edersheim, vol. ii., chap. vii. 

Thirst, come, drink, — acts involving will and 
decision. 

Then spontaneous, abundant outflow toward 
others. 

The results of the test. 

1. The multitude, vs. 12, 20, 31, 40, 43. 

Repeat the false charges of the Jews (recall 

Matt. 12: 24), but open to conviction, as they recall 
His works and hear His words. 

2. The Jews. vs. 11, 13, 15, 25-27, 30, 35. 

Marvel at His teaching, but, confused by tradi- 
tion, influenced by rulers, incensed by His plain 
words, they will not seek Him while they may. 

3. The chief priests and Pharisees, vs. 32, 47- 
49 , 52 . 

Failing to heed their own counsel, blinded 
by their own conceit and prejudice, they follow the 
course which brings a curse upon their own heads. 

4. Nicodemus. v. 50. 

Answers the question of v. 48. 

Growing acquaintance with Jesus increases his 
courage. 

Pleads for lawful and fair consideration. 

What leads him to take a different attitude 
toward Jesus from theirs? 

What settles evfery man’s attitude toward Jesus? 

65 


Study Hints: 

1. Study Jesus’ spirit throughout this intense 
scene. See His frankness, courage, His single aim 
to help others rather than protect Himself. 

2. What are the two great outstanding passages 
of the chapter? What is the message of each to the 
Christian worker? How is he to bring home their 
great summons to others? 


STUDY XII. 


WITH THE BLIND BEGGAR, WHO RECEIVED 
SPIRITUAL AS WELL AS BODILY SIGHT. 

John 9:1-41. 


Showing How Light is to he Had, and How It 
May he Increased. 

The darkness in which the light shone. 

A sombre picture of human hearts from which 
Christ is shut out. 
i. The Jewish leaders. 

(1) Evidences of their blindness. See them 
groping in 8 : 13, 19, 22, 25, 27, 53, 57. 

(2) Reasons for it suggested in 8: 12, 15, 23, 
34, 37, 44, 47, 55. 

Twisted by their legal preconceptions. 9: 16, 
24, 29. 


66 


(3) Endeavoring not only to exclude but to 
extinguish the light. 

Trap to place Him in opposition to the 
law. 8: i-ii. 

Attempt to stone. 8: 59. 

Extreme measures to prevent others from 
seeing. 9: 22. 

Attempt to discredit the bestowal of light, 
9: 18, 19; and then, ignoring the result, to find 
some ground of accusation in the method. 9 : 26. 

2. The neighbors. 9: 8-12. 

Incredulous. 

Chiefly concerned with breach of law. 

3. The parents, vs. 20, 21. 

Fearful. 

Chiefly concerned for their own safety. 

4. The disciples, v. 2. 

Speculative. 

Chiefly concerned with the origin rather than 
the removal of evil. 

The Pharisees’ opinion, v. 34. 

Christ’s, vs. 3-5. The true attitude toward the 
world’s suffering. 

A profound reason for affliction — to make God 
known. 

The light bestowed. , 

1. The bestower. 

An object lesson of His teaching. 8: 12; 9: 5. 

2. The day for such work. 

vs. 4, 14. 

3. The claim — human need. 

Unsought. 

Blind from birth— a type of sin’s thorough 
helplessness, v. 32. 

A beggar seeking help but not cure. 

67 


4- The method. 

Entirely insufficient, to human reason. 
Involving obedience, based on confidence in 
Him who directs. 

Removing clay (see 2 Cor. 4: 3, 4, R. V.) 
that sight bestowed may be used. 

Bathing in Pool Siloam. (The “Sent” One 
from God.) 

What excuses or difficulties might have kept 
him in his beggar’s seat? 

The light shining. 

1. Upon the neighbors. 

Those who knew Him best. 

A straightforward testimony. Brief but ex- 
plicit. Note how every word tells. 

2. Upon the Pharisees. 

Courageous under fire, 
v. 15. Briefer still. 

The essential facts for the prejudiced. No 
discussion. The facts are enough. 

v. 25. Matches His knowledge against theirs. 
Knows little yet of the worker but everything 
of the work. 

How does He deserve the title they scornfully 
give Him? v. 28. 

vs. 30-33. The inevitable conclusion based on 
the incontestable fact. 

The light increased. 

1. The Friend for the friendless as well as the 
Light for the blind. 

Compare His treatment of the man with that 
of the Pharisees. 

Draws out such belief as he already has. 


68 


Reason for His choice of title for Himself? 

v. 35- 

“Seen” now, as by the blind man, with the eye 
of faith, He talks with men (Rev. 3 : 20) to win their 
love and worship. 

2. The growth of faith. 

Trace the steps in the blind man’s acquaint- 
ance with Jesus from v. 11 to v. 38. 

Study Hints : 

1. What does this blind man’s example say to us? 
Have you ever been inspired by anything in the 

conduct of a new convert? 

2. From Jesus’ course here what are we to learn 

(1) About the way we are to regard human 
suffering? 

(2) About the cure of soul blindness? 

(3) About following up those who are just 
coming to the light? 


STUDY XIII. 


REVIEW. 

The most satisfactory review can be had 
by arranging the principal points from each 
study in tabular form somewhat as follows : — 
69 




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Key Text. 

Luke 2:49, 

last 

clause. 

Heb. 2:18. 

Result. 

Growth in 
grace and 

power. 

Readiness 

for ser- 

vice. 

Central 

Truth. 

God’s claims 
are supreme. 
Daily do His 
will. 

Yield self to 
be baptized 
with the 
Spirit. Trust 

God fully and 

thus baffle 

Satan. 

The Method. 

Patient ser- 
vice. Dili- 
gent study. 

Whole-heart- 
ed consecra- 
tion. Fidelity 
to God and to 
His truth. 

£ 

rs* 

Vi 

« 

S 

Vi 

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Home, school, 
shop, 
church. 

(1) At a preach- 
ing service. 

(2) Apart from 

men. 

£ 

N 

v> 

8 

•s, 

Our every- 
day asso- 
ciates. 

God’s mes- 
sengers. The 
enemy of 
souls. 

With. 

Family, 

townspeople, 

teachers. 

John the Bap- 
tist. The 
tempter. 

Where. 

Nazareth. 

Jerusalem. 

Bethany, be- 
yond Jordan. 
The desert. 

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II. The Period of Introduction. In Quiet Scenes. Great Truths for Individual Listeners. 


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Key Test. 

John 1:39, 

first 

clause. 

I. John 5:1, 

first 

clause. 

John 4:14. 

Result. 

Enlist- 

ment. 

Perplex- 
ity. Later, 
accept- 

ance. 

Belief 

and 

testi- 

mony. 

Central 

Truth. 

Jesus’ readi- 
ness to re- 
ceive all 
men. 

Spiritual life 
is produced 
from above 
and obtained 
by faith. 

Abundant 
satisfaction 
for the soul’s 
thirst God’s 

gift in 

Christ. 

The Method. 

Invitation. 
Revelation 
of the 
Messiah. 

Applying and 
illustrating 
fundamental 
truth. 

Awakening 
interest, con- 
victing of 
sin, offering 
salvation. 

Vi 

After open- 
air preaching. 

Private in- 
terview fol- 
lowing pub- 
lic acts. 

A casual 
meeting by 
the road- 
side. 

> 

•Vi 

Vi 

£ 

•s 

-V 

Men who are 
following the 
light they 
have. 

Thoughtful, 

philosophical 

inquirers. 

Independent 
and preju- 
diced sinners. 

With. 

The first dis- 
ciples. 

Nicodemus. 

A Samaritan 
Woman. 

Where. 

Bethany, be- 
yond Jordan. 

Jerusalem. 

Jacob’s Well. 









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he Period of Widening Influence. Amro the Throngs. Personal Dealing even 

Without Private Opportunities. 


Let each student prepare his own review 
chart, adding to these first studies the remain- 
ing ones in the same way. 

Then review the chart, drawing from each 
column its suggestions. 

Notice the varied classes and characters 
Jesus reached. See how He utilized every sit- 
uation, however unusual or even unpromising 
it might seem. Point out how He adapted 
His method to those with whom He spoke. 
Classify the central truths and show what He 
taught in these interviews (i) about God, 
(2) about Himself, (3) about sin, (4) about 
man’s duty and responsibility. 

Drill on the key texts. 


Ask each member to bring to this review 
lesson, for the eye of the leader alone, a short 
statement in writing about the personal work 
he has done thus far since the course began. 
Ask him to tell ( 1 ) what blessings have come 
to his own life from this study and work, (2) 
how much reason he has to hope that he has 
been helpful to others. 


72 


V. THE APPROACH TO THE GOAL. 


November 29 A. D. to March 30 A. D. 


About six months. From His final departure from 
Galilee to His last approach to Jerusalem. 

In Persea, “the region beyond,” with journeys to 
Jerusalem and Bethany. 

Following the seventy and teaching new crowds. 
Steadfastly facing Jerusalem and the cross. 
Interviews on the road. 






STUDY XIV. 


WITH THREE MEN FAVORABLY DISPOSED 
TOWARD CHRIST BUT LACKING STEAD- 
FAST PURPOSE; AND WITH AN- 
OTHER WHO TREATS SALVA- 
TION AS A SUBJECT OF SPEC- 
ULATION. 


Luke 9:51, 57-62; Matt. 8:19-22; Luke 13:22-30. 


Urging Christ’s Supreme Claim Upon Every Life 
and the Immediate Duty of Personal Action. 

The point of time. Verse 51. 

Its brevity leads to steadfast concentration on 
work remaining to be done. 

Turning His back on Galilee, He moves through 
Peraea (Matt. 19: 1, 2), on a “slow circuit whose 
final goal is Jerusalem.” — Meyer. 

Seventy forerunners precede and proclaim Him as 
Messiah. Luke 10: 1, 16. “The twelve apostles 
were sent to declare the coming of the Kingdom, 
these, the coming of the King.” — Lightfoot. 

A time, therefore, of public heralding, cross-facing, 
purpose-testing. 

Three would-be followers tested. 

1. The man of impulse. 

If the same man Matthew mentions in 8: 19, 


what were probably his ideas of the Kingdom, and 
his motive in enlisting? 

Which kind of seed-growth, described in Luke 
8: n-15, does this man illustrate? 

How does Christ later picture such men in 
Luke 14: 28-32? 

What is the personal application to him con- 
veyed in the pathetic statement of v. 58? Compare 
Luke 14: 27, 33. 

Many like him now, without penitence for sin 
or renunciation of self, desire to turn over a new 
leaf, and think it a wise step to unite with the church. 
What teaching do they need? 

2. The man with other pressing duties. 

His relationship to Christ. See Matt. 8: 21. 
How does he recognize it in the term he applies to 
Him? 

What was wrong with his request? Was he 
desiring opportunity to observe one of the command- 
ments? Was he breaking the sum of them? Luke 
10: 26, 27. 

How were Christ’s claims and the duty He as- 
signed paramount? 

What inferior excuses now satisfy men for 
their failure to herald the King? Do they satisfy 
Him? 

3. The man with hindering ties. 

What lesson included by Christ in the com- 
mission of the Twelve had this man not learned? 
Matt. 10: 37. 

What word in his petition, as well as in the 
preceding one, conflicted with Matt. 6: 33? 

4. The truth for all three. 

Eyes front for a straight furrow, v. 62. 

Ballast overboard to reach the sky. Luke 
14: 33- 


76 



A questioner answered. 

1. The questioner. 

(1) His ancestry, v. 28. His view of Jesus. 
His cast of mind. 

(2) Men now who in effect ask the same 
question : 

a. Those who like to go with the crowd 
— are easily influenced by surroundings. 

b. Those who speculate about God’s 
dealings with the heathen. 

c. Those who believe God will not per- 
mit any to be lost. 

d. Those who discuss and speculate, lis- 
ten and say, “Lord, Lord,” but do not break away 
and follow. Matt. 7: 21. 

Which of these classes does this ques- 
tioner most resemble? 

2. The question. 

What may have suggested it, — in the circum- 
stances or the preceding teaching? 

With whom was it a common theme of dis- 
cussion ? 

Men’s opinions about it. 

3. The answer. 

For him, and them, and us. 

(1) What does it not contain? Why? 

(2) What it does contain. 

a. Personal application. Compare Matt. 
7: 14. On what is the thought centered there? On 
what here? 

The narrow door — the only entrance — 
admits the man himself, but not his idols also. 

Strive (act like a man pressing through 
an opposing crowd into a door which may any in- 
stant close), rather than seek (merely desire, and, 


77 




too late, ask admission on ground of privileges neg- 
lected). 

b. Warning. 

Neglected privileges and forefathers’ 
faith will not admit, only condemn. 

Those who fail to do right (v. 27), as 
well as those who are lawless (Matt. 7: 23, see Roth- 
erham’s translation), banished from His presence. 

Conscious and bitter existence after op- 
portunity is ended. 

c. Prophecy. 

Others will press into the place you 
fail to take. 

4. The spirit in which such warnings must be 
given. See v. 34. 


STUDY XV. 


WITH DEAR FRIENDS OVERWHELMED BY 
SORROW. 

John 11:1-46. 


Comforting by Human Sympathy and by the Truth 
which Robs Grief of Its Sting. 

The story of a sympathetic eye-witness. 

Indications of this? 

What identified this village? v. 1. What identified 
Mary? See Mark 14: 9. 


73 



The frowning providence. 

1. The message. 

How does it indicate (a) their intimacy with 
Him? (b) their confidence in Him? 

2. The delay. 

How does Jesus show that He knows the end 
from the beginning? See Rotherham, “this sick- 
ness.” 

Why does John insert the statement in v. 5? 
What alone made the delay bearable by Jesus? 

v. 4. 

3. The death. 

Did Jesus ever stand by a dying bed? 

Why wait longer when Lazarus was already 

dead? 

The glory of God shining through the cloud. 

1. Upon the disciples. 

Devotion rewarded by increase of faith. 
Following the light insures security from 
stumbling, vs. 9, 10. Compare 9: 4, 5. 

The comforting term for death, v. 11. What 
does it imply? 

2. Upon the sisters. 

(1) Martha. Why first? 

A private and sympathetic interview. 
What had helped in preparing her to 
meet this trouble? Luke 10: 38-42. 

How had her faith been tried? vs. 4, 17. 
How had it stood the test? vs. 21, 22. 
Compare 1 Peter 1 : 6-9. 

The fuller truth now revealed, vs. 25, 26. 
The answer to Job 14: 14. 

“The resurrection,” because “the life,” 
— already possessed, not to be asked of God, — “am,” 


79 


not shall be, — for all believers life continuous and 
unending. See Rotherham and Westcott on v. 26. 

The response, v. 27. How much of the 
new truth had she appropriated? What does her 
remonstrance in v. 39 reveal? Afraid of seeing cor- 
ruption where glory was promised. What only was 
necessary in order to see “the glory of God” ? 

(2) Mary. 

Love winged her feet in response to the 

news. 

What do her words of greeting indicate? 

Why may Jesus not have repeated to her 
the truth He had taught Martha? 

Compare Jesus as a comforter with their 
Jerusalem friends. 

3. Upon Lazarus. 

Inward indignation at the “last enemy” (1 Cor. 
15: 25, 26), but flowing tears of sympathy with hu- 
man grief. 

The purpose of the prayer; of the loud sum- 
mons ; of the miracle itself. 

The lesson from the use of human agents, 
vs. 34, 39, 44- 

The central figure. Many can wail, some can 
help, only One can summon. 

The effect of the “sign.” 

Already impressed by former miracle (v. 37), and 
now convinced by this greater one, many believe 
(v. 45)- 

The chief priests and Sadducees, — henceforth 
leaders in the conspiracy to put Him to death, v. 4 7. 
Why? They attest the truth of Luke 16: 31. 

The miracle an evidence to attest the great mes- 
sage of hope and comfort in vs. 25, 26. 


80 



Study Hints: 

1. What do we learn here as to (i) the spirit we 
are to show, and (2) the truth we are to bring to 
those who are in gloom or bitterness of spirit be- 
cause of trouble? 

2. What may God’s servants do for those who 
are “dead in sins”? See vs. 39, 44. 


STUDY XVI. 


WITH THE YOUNG RULER WHO LOVED 
MONEY TOO WELL, AND THE CHIEF 
PUBLICAN WHOM MONEY HAD 
FAILED TO SATISFY. 


Matt. 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23; 19:1-10. 


Testing the Man Who Prides Himself on His 
Record ; Seeking the Man Who Has no Record 
to be Proud of. 

I. The Man Who Sought but Would not Follow. 

The meeting. 

The place. The time. The surroundings. 

How is the interview emphasized by the point of 
time at which it occurs in Christ’s career? In the 
ruler’s ? 


81 


The eager inquirer. 

1. His character. 

Combine the three sketches to get a full view 
of him. 

What is the one feature which all see and 

state ? 

What attractive qualities are apparent in him 
as he approaches the Good Teacher? 

What did he possess which many young men 
earnestly seek after? 

Why did they fail to satisfy him? 

2. His right course. 

How much of moral earnestness did it evi- 
dence ? 

3. His imperfect views — 

(1) Of Christ. 

(2) Of himself. Was his claim sincere? 
How did he soon prove it was not true? 

(3) Of the way to life. Why is eternal life 
not to be had in the way he suggested? Why do men 
seek it that way? 

The test of discipleship. 

1. A question. Mark 10: 18. Its object? 

2. An examination, v. 19. Its purpose? Why 
better than contradiction? 

Can you see any intention in the selection of 
the commandments named and the order in which 
they are given? 

3. A specific direction, v. 21b. 

How do the circumstances explain it? 

What views of Christ and of possessions were 
involved in obedience to it? 

Was it too high a price for what he sought? 
Was it asked as a price? 


82 


4- A universal command, v. 21c. 

How was this fundamental to the other? 

What really was the “one thing lacking” ? 
Where would obedience to this call have taken 

him. 

The sad separation. 

1. Contrast his departure with his approach. 
What emotion is fitly connected with the re- 
jection of Christ? See Matt. 16: 3, “lowring,” the 
only other use in the New Testament of the Greek 
word here translated “sad.” 

II. The Man Who was Sought and Followed. 

The lost man. 

1. His position. 

(1) In the world’s eyes. Would many have 
been glad to fill it? 

(2) In Christ’s. Same Greek word trans- 
lated “lost” in Luke 19: 10 is rendered by “destroy” 
in v. 47 and in 20: 16, and by “perish” in 13: 3, 5, 
and John 3:15, 16. 

2. Where lost ? 

In a luxurious city. Josephus called it “a lit- 
tle Paradise.” 

In a religious community. A favorite home 
of priests. 

What would such priests as the one described 
in Luke 10: 31 think of him? 

3. How lost? Compare 2 Cor. 4: 3, 4. 

What one thing had he in common with the 
young ruler? 

What had he sacrificed for it? 

What, apparently, had his longer experience 

83 


taught him concerning it, — a lesson the ruler had yet 
to learn ? 

How was his very name probably a sarcasm 
be applied to his character ? Zacchseus=J ust. 

4. His awakening interest. 

What aroused it? What may he have heard? 
Luke 15 : 1. 

What traits that may have contributed to his 
riches are shown in vs. 3, 4? 

How did those surrounding Christ hinder in- 
stead of help his approach? 

How and why do many of His followers still 
do the same? 

How does his manner of approach differ from 
the young ruler’s, and why? 

What one thing, which Zacchaeus realized and 
the ruler did not, helps to explain the different out- 
come? 

The seeking Saviour. 

1. His situation. 

What thoughts absorbed the minds of the peo- 
ple? v. 11. Compare John 11: 55-57. 

For what one man in all this crowd did Jesus 
have special thought? 

Why might it seem an inopportune time and 
place for such an interview? 

Why was it both the time and the place? 

2. His introduction. 

“Came to the place.” Singled him out. 
Looked him in the eye. Called him by name. 

3. His claims. 

“Make haste,” — a word for those who are 
always “thinking about it,” but never obeying. 

“Come down” — from the place of spectator to 
that of disciple. 


84 


/ 


What was involved in admittance to Zacchasus’s 
home? 

What was gained by this public committal? 

To what was the Son of Man here, as ever, 
indifferent ? 

Of what does He say nothing? Why? 

A follower found. 

1. His joyful welcome. 

How may we account for this prompt and 
glad obedience? 

2. His immediate salvation. 

(1) The ground on which it had been be- 
stowed. v. 9. 

His term for Christ, v. 8. What relation- 
ship did it involve? 

How was he a true son of Abraham? 
Compare Rom. 4: 16. 

(2) Its evidences. 

Voluntarily offering what the ruler re- 
fused to yield. Not to win salvation, but because 
he has it. 

Righting wrongs. The Bible ratio. See 
Ex. 22 : 1 ; 2 Sam. 12 : 6. 

One case in which the object of Christ’s “coming” 
was attained. 

Study Hints: 

1. How does this study show “the deceitfulness of 
riches”? Their failure to satisfy the heart? 

2. What can be done for the man who is trusting 
in his morality? 

3. What spirit must the disciple have to be like 
His Master in these two interviews? 


85 


VI. THE PASSION WEEK. 


April 1 to 7, 30 A. D. 


One week. From His arrival at Bethany to His cru- 
cifixion. 

In Jerusalem and its suburbs. 

In the face of death He forgets self and devotes Him- 
self to His disciples, and even to His judge. 





STUDY XVII. 


WITH THE GREEKS, WHO ASK TO “SEE 
JESUS” WITHOUT REALLY UNDER- 
STANDING WHAT THEIR REQUEST 
INVOLVES. 


John 12:20-36. 


Uplifting the Dying yet Glorified Lord Before the 
Eyes of all Men. 

The application. 

An illustration of the despairing prophecy of the 
Pharisees (John 12: 19), which they themselves ful- 
filled in their desperate attempt to prevent (v. 32). 

Probably just after the stormy scenes of the last 
Tuesday, and so at the end of His public ministry, 
v. 36. 

The applicants. 

Greeks from the West at the end, as Magi from 
the East at the beginning. 

What did their presence for worship indicate as to 
their relation to Judaism? See 1 Kings 8: 41-43. 

How does this request agree with their national 
character? Compare Acts 17: 21. 

How is the name they apply to Him appropriate? 
Of whom may they be considered as forerunners? 


See Acts 8: 27; 10: 1, 2; 17: 4; Rom. 1: 16; 1 Cor. 
1 : 23, 24. 

How do men now show this Greek trait of char- 
acter ? 

The messengers. 

Why may they have singled out Philip? 

Why may he have sought help in dealing with 
this unusual request? Compare Mark 7: 24-30. 

Why did he naturally turn to Andrew? See John 
1 : 44 ; 6 : 5-9 ; Mark 3 : 18. 

Which becomes the leader of the pair? 

What made Philip hesitate? Why and how do we 
resemble him? 

The answer. 

1. To whom addressed? 

Did he receive the Greeks? 

What might their request have suggested to 
one who knew less than Jesus? What did it suggest 
to Him? 

What was necessary before the world could 
“see Jesus”? 

2. The principle. 

Fruitfulness, life eternal, glorification, — all at- 
tained only by the death of self. 

When and how had He taught it before? See 
Mark 8: 35; Luke 17: 33. 

“So it must be ever : Day out of night ; spring out 
of winter; flowers out of frost; joy out of sorrow; 
fruitfulness out of pruning; Olivet out of Gethse- 
mane; the Ascension out of Calvary; life out of 
death; and the Christ that is to be out of the pangs 


90 


/ 



of a travailing creation.” — Meyer’s The Life and 
Light of Men, p. 232. 

3. Three illustrations of it. 

(1) The analogy of nature, v. 24. 

(2) The practice of true disciples, vs. 25, 26. 
(See Rotherham’s notes on v. 25.) 

(3) The Son of Man’s own soul-struggle. 

a. Not shrinking from death, but facing 
the Cross with all it involved, and realizing the tre- 
mendous strain that is coming upon His human 
nature. 

b. The one relationship that holds in 
such an hour. So in Gethsemane. Matt. 26 : 39, 42 ; 
Mark 14: 36. 

c. The prayer for victory, — “out of” 
rather than “from this hour.” (See Westcott on 
v. 27.) 

d. The prayer for the Father’s glory. 
Compare John 17: 1-4. 

e. The heavenly witness. The Father’s 
name already glorified in the Son’s life (see espec- 
ially Matt. 3: 17 and 17: 5), and to be glorified still 
more in His death. How? 

4. The principle applied. 

The voice one more evidence for faith-strengthen- 
ing. Compare John 11: 42. 

Uplifting, both on the Cross and out of the tomb. 
The Christ’s power of attraction over men and of 
victory over Satan. 

Misapplied Scripture only veils the eyes. v. 34. 

The Light is yet here. Walk after Him, put faith 
in Him, that you may be transformed into a son 
of light. 


9i 


The effect. 


1. Upon the Greeks. 

We are not told. 

2. Upon the people generally, vs. 37-41. 

Blinded and hardened. 

3. Upon many of the rulers, vs. 42, 43. 

Afraid to follow their convictions. 

Study Hints: 

What does this scene teach 

1. As to the only path to highest fruitfulness open 
to every follower of Jesus? 

2. As to the only gospel message that really has 
in it uplifting power? 


STUDY XVIII. 


WITH HIS OWN DISCIPLES, WHEN THEY 
SHOW THE WORLD’S SPIRIT. 


Luke 22:24-30; John 13:1-20. 


Exemplifying and Applying the Object Lesson of 
Lowly Service for Others. 

The saddest of nights. 

1. The night “before the feast of the Passover.” 
“During supper,” — the Paschal meal, the sym- 
bol of bitterness followed by joy. 


92 


/ 


f 

In the guest chamber divinely provided. Luke 
22: 7-13. 

2. John’s interpretation of Jesus’ motives. 

What knowledge on His part led to the supreme 
evidence of love ? v. 1 ; R. V. margin, “to the utter- 
most.” 

What to the lowliest service? v. 3. 

Why appropriately “the Father” in v. 1, “God” 
in v. 3 ? 

Even in the hour when Satan is doing his worst 
(v. 2) how are His thoughts absorbed? 

The selfish rivalry. 

How do Luke and John supplement and confirm 
one another? Compare especially Luke 22: 27 and 
John 13: 5. 

Who had just before shown the same spirit of 
selfish ambition? See Matt. 20: 20-24. 

Perhaps brought to the surface now in taking their 
seats at table. 

What false ideas of Jesus’ mission probably con- 
tributed to it ? 

Why must it have been peculiarly distressing to 
Jesus at this time? 

How does it often now appear in Christian work? 

The rebuke and promise. Luke 22: 25-30. 

Note its peculiarly gentle and tender spirit. 

A repetition of former teaching that had been in- 
effectual. Matt. 20: 25-28. 

Christ’s kingdom “not of this world,” hence not 
ruled by this world’s precepts and examples. 

Following the true Benefactor now will lead to 
seats at His table and to thrones hereafter. 

When before had they received the same promise? 
See Matt. 19: 28. 



93 




The object lesson. John 13: 2-1 1. 

Resorted to when oral teaching had proved in- 
effectual. 

Thorough in every detail. Explain the customs of 
the time. 

Included even Judas. See vs. 12, 30. 

The application. 

1. To Simon Peter. Probably began with him. 

For emphatic use of pronouns in v. 6, see 

Rotherham’s translation. 

“Hereafter,” in the light of the Passion and the 
Resurrection, Peter shall come to understand just 
how much this act of humble service means, v. 7. 

Self-surrender the first condition of disciple- 
ship. v. 8. 

Once cleansed by Jesus, the work of one dis- 
ciple for another is to refresh by removing the stains 
of earth, v. 10. 

2. To all. 

Do not misunderstand our true relation, v. 13. 
But let it add to the impressiveness of My example, 
vs. 14, 15. 

Remember what I taught you when I first sent 
you out. See Matt. 10 : 24. Another reminder later the 
same evening. John 15 : 20. 

A new beatitude (v. 17), a new term of en- 
dearment (v. 33), and a new commandment (vs. 34, 
35). See how these are woven by John into the very 
fibre of his Epistles. 

Am I representing my Saviour and my Father 
(v. 20) by following the example of Jesus in this 
scene? Write down all the points in which His 
course here is an example to us, and use it prayer- 
fully for self-examination. 


94 




f 

STUDY XIX. 


WITH SIMON PETER WHEN HE SHOWS 
DANGEROUS SELF-CONFIDENCE AND 
SELF-WILL. 

John 13:36-38; Luke 22:31-38; Matt. 26:30-41; John 18: 10, 11; 
Luke 22: 54-62. 

Plain Warnings Repeated Once and Again in Love. 
Patience with the Wayward One. 

The disciple in danger. 

1. Loving and loyal, but impetuous and self-willed. 
Recall the supper scene in the last interview. 

2. Self-confident. 

(1) In spite of former failures. 

Recall Study io. 

(2) And in face of present warnings. 

Sure he could follow to prison and to 

death. John 13: 37; Luke 22: 33; Matt. 26: 35; 
though alone, Mark 14 : 29. 

Believing his words sincere, how can we 
explain his mistaken estimate of himself, and his 
deafness to the Master’s warnings? 

3. The great protester. See especially Mark 14: 

3i. 

What proved harder to bear than the impris- 
onment and death he spoke about so freely? 

The Friend in need. 

1. His thoughtfulness. 

In spite of His own troubled spirit. John 
13: 21. 


95 


During his hour of bitterest agony. Matt. 26; 
37, 38. (See Rotherham’s note.) 

And on trial before His enemies. Luke 22: 
54, 61. 

2. The triple warning. 

(1) At the supper table. John 13: 36-38; 
Luke 22: 31-38. 

Separation from Him the test to be 
feared. John 13: 36. 

Prophecy of v. 36 repeated more circum- 
stantially. John 21 : 18, 19. 

Know (a) the danger (Luke 22: 31), 
(b) the encouragement (v. 32a), (c) the object (v. 
32b). 

Realize the weak point at which Satan 
will assault. John 13: 38; Luke 22: 34. 

Notice that Jesus here in v. 34, as in Matt. 
16: 18, calls him “Peter,” elsewhere always “Simon.” 
Can you suggest a reason ? 

(2) On the way to the garden. Matt. 26: 
31-35- (For the harmony see Andrews, pp. 494-497.) 

A warning to all, with explanation of the 
approaching scene, and appointment for reunion. 
How much of it does Peter hear and heed? 

What effect does the repeated and em- 
phatic announcement of v. 34 have upon him? 

(3) In the garden. Matt. 26: 36-41. 

The loving yet searching rebuke, v. 40. 
The exhortation, v. 41. Weakness of 
the flesh not an excuse for, but an incentive to, 
watchfulness. 

3. Patience with the wayward. 

(1) At the arrest. 

Fleshly energy with a worldly weapon 
rebuked. John 18: 10, 11. 



Mistaken views of the kingdom led to 
misinterpretation of Jesus’ words in Luke 22: 35-38. 
How did this weaken him later? See John 18: 26. 

Failure to learn the lesson of Matt. 16: 
24, 25 leads to flight (Mark. 14: 50) with the rest. 

What was lacking here to make him 
“Peter” indeed? See Isa. 26: 3, 4, R. V. 

What made him follow, though afar off? 
(2) In the palace court. Luke 22 : 55-62. 

In the wrong company at such a time. As 
an old Scotch minister said, Peter had “nae business 
among the flunkeys.” 

The threefold denial. Accompanied by 
swearing, of which Mark (14: 71) tells us, and Peter 
himself is Mark’s informant. Perhaps the revival in 
this evil hour of an old evil habit. 

The look that pierced his heart. Luke 

22: 61. 

The tears of true penitence. Luke 22: 
62. “The erring disciple was much more singular 
in his repentance than in his sin.” — Bruce. 

For the sequel, restoring him to useful- 
ness, see Study 23. 

Study Hints: 

1. Review these scenes, and gather the principles 
that should guide us in dealing with the self-con- 
fident and wayward. 

2. Make personal application, especially of the 
warning and encouragement of Luke 22: 31, 32. 


97 


STUDY XX 



WITH PILATE, WHO WANTS TO DO RIGHT, 
BUT WILL NOT MAKE THE SACRIFICE 
IT REQUIRES. 

John 18:28-38; Mark 15: 3-5; Luke 23: 4-19; Matt. 27: 19-23; John 
19:4-12; Matt. 27:24-26; John 19:13-16. 

Showing “What is Truth,” both Concerning Jesus 
and Concerning Personal Responsibility to Him. 

His hour of testing. 

Sudden and severe. One morning made him for- 
ever infamous. “Suffered under Pontius Pilate.” 

His political position and responsibility and his 
relations to the Jews. (See article on “Pilate” in 
any Bible Dictionary). 

Where was he at this time, and for what purpose? 
What is the crucial test in every man’s life, as in 
Pilate’s? See Matt. 27: 22. 

His investigations. 

1. Of the charges of enemies. John 18: 29-32. 
Indifferent in spirit, but disposed to do justice. 
Despising the Jews, but desiring to conciliate 

them. 

Reading their motives. Mark 15 : 10. 

2. Of Jesus Himself. 

(1) As to His character and position. John 
18: 33-38. 

Inquiry of v. 33 based on the charge of se- 
98 



dition. Luke 23 : 2. Perhaps, also, on knowledge of 
His triumphal entry on the previous Sunday. 

Scorns His race, but puzzled by the un- 
usual course of its leaders (v. 35) and by His own 
worldly ideas of kingship (v. 37). “Thou a king ?” 

(2) As to His self-control under calumny. 
Marvels greatly at His silence in self-de- 
fense. Mark 15 : 3-5. 

(3) As to His origin. 

Trembles before His claim to divinity. 
John 19: 7-9. 

Yet threatens Him with his “little brief 
authority.” v. 10. 

His light. 

1. As to his own responsibility. John 18: 34. 

An appeal to awaken the conscience. 

2. As to the true nature of Jesus’ kingdom (v. 36), 
and the mission which caused His incarnation (v.37). 

A test of Pilate’s relation to “the truth,” which 
brings out only the cynical question of v. 38. 

3. As to Jesus’ opinion of him. John 19: 9. 
Silence, to the time-server, who will not follow 

his convictions, more searching than words. 

4. As to the source of his power and his con- 
sequent responsibility to God, not men. John 19: it. 

How was this light, which Jesus shed upon his 
path, adapted to such a man as he, a Roman who 
knew little and sympathized less with Jewish 
scriptures and hopes? 

His convictions. 

How often and how strongly does he publicly de- 
clare Jesus’ innocence? 

Who join him in the testimony? 

99 

L.of C. 



How does he show the growing impression made 
upon him by Jesus’ character and conduct? 

Did he believe Him more than human? 

How does his conduct concerning the inscription, 
the burial, and the guard, show the strength of the 
convictions to which he was false? 

His attempts to evade the issue. 

In spite of his own statement in John 19 : 10, upon 
whom, in turn, does he endeavor to shift the re- 
sponsibility of deciding the case? 

How does he endeavor to substitute policy for 
justice, and with what success? 

How does he attempt to use his own cruel in- 
justice to move the sympathies of the crowd? 

Baffled and defeated for lack of courage and truth, 
how does he vainly attempt to clear himself, and then 
substitute taunts for righteousness? 

How do men now attempt to evade the issue of 
responsibility to Jesus? 

His weakness and failure. 

1. The cause. Selfish fear of personal harm — 

(1) From charges he dared not face. John 
19 : 1 2. His past record would not bear investigation. 

(2) From popular tumult difficult to quell. 
Matt. 27 : 24. He had already had one experience 
of it at least. Luke 13 : 1. 

What causes nowadays hinder loyalty to 
Christ and honest convictions? 

2. The issue. Gives over the Son of Man and 
Son of God to scourging, mockery, and a shameful 
death. 

How does the rejection or neglect of Christ’s 
claims to-day resemble Pilate’s course? 


100 




3. The end. Stripped of his office on charges 
just such as he attempted to avoid, he is said to have 
died in banishment. Amid many traditions (like 
that of Mount Pilatus), we know only what Christ 
said in applying the lesson of one of his acts. Luke 
13: 3 - 

Study Hint: 

Gather from these scenes how we are to show men 
the two courses open to them in regard to Christ? 


10 









V 


VII. FROM THE TOMB TO THE THRONE. 


April and May, 30 A. D. 


Forty days. From the Resurrection to the Ascen- 
sion. 

In the familiar spots about Jerusalem and in Galilee. 

Establishing the faith of His followers, and empow- 
ering them for service. 


























STUDY XXI. 




WITH TWO MEN WHO ARE IN A FOG OF 
DOUBT ABOUT THE CENTRAL FACTS 
OF CHRISTIANITY. 

Luke 24: 13-35. 


Showing the Place in God’s Plans of Jesus’ Death 
and Resurrection and the Certainty of Both. 

The walkers. 

1. Who? 

“Two of them” — of whom? Compare v. 22. 
Was either an apostle? See v. 33. Was the 
unnamed one Cleopas’s wife? See v. 25, R. V. Was 
he Luke? 

2. When ? 

“That very day.” Whose day, and why? 

3. Whither? 

To Emmaus, — a disputed site. (See Andrews, 
pp. 614-618.) In any case, a hilly foot-journey of 
about eight miles. 

Why leave Jerusalem on that day of all days? 
Especially after what they tell in v. 24? 

4. Their state of mind and heart, vs. 15-17. 

( 1 ) Their conception — 

a. Of Jesus and His mission, vs. 19-21. 

b. Of the earlier events of the same day. 


vs. 22-24. (For a connected narrative of these con- 
sult Andrews, pp. 610-613.) 

Hints of hopes too faint to state, vs. 21b, 

24b. 

Apparently without knowledge of His appearances 
to Mary and the other women. 

(2) The causes of gloom and perplexity. 

a. Misconception, v. 21. 

b. Heedlessness. Matt. 16 : 21, and later. 

c. Unbelief. Luke 24: 11. 

d. No evidence of prayerfulness, in spite 
of promise of John 14 : 13, 14. 

Jesus sums it up. v. 25. (a) Foolish, — thought- 

less; not applying their minds to His teachings, (b) 
Slow of heart to rest faith on the voices of the Scrip- 
tures. 

(3) The anchor that held in the storm. 

What did the theme of their conversation 

prove ? 

How real and personal a loss was Jesus’ 
death to them? 

What evidence would our ordinary con- 
versation afford of our regard for Jesus? 

How much greater evidence of Jesus’ res- 
urrection have we than they had ? 

The Companion. 

1. His approach. 

When does He join His followers? Compare 
Mai. 3: 16; 4: 2; Matt. 18: 20 (see Rotherham’s 
note) ; Mark 6 : 48. 

Why unrecognized? Luke 24: 16; Mark 16: 12. 
Nothing awe-inspiring in His appearance. Simply a 
friendly fellow-traveller. 

On what did recognition of Jesus depend in all 
His appearances during the forty days? 

106 








vision ? 

2. His share in the conversation. 

He guides it. 

Brings to the light the cause of their trouble. 
Affectionately chides them for it. 

Shows the necessity and purpose of the “very 
things” (see Rotherham) that had saddened them. 

Enlightens ignorance by thorough interpreta- 
tion of Scripture. 

Abides with those whose loving wishes con- 
strain Him. Why did He propose to go further? 

Becomes the Master of the feast. Rev. 3 : 20. 
Reveals Himself in the familiar attitudes of 
blessing and serving. 

Reminding them probably of what former 
scenes ? 

Illustrates His answer to Judas’s question. 
John 14: 22-27. 

Why suddenly vanish? 

Who is to assist His followers in doing work 
like this? John 14: 26; 15: 26, 27. 

The return. 

Warm hearts (v. 32) make quick feet, prompt 
and joyous testimony (v. 35). 

Vying with the rest in sharing the glad news, 
vs. 34 , 35- 

Study Hint: 

Notice the steps in their upward path, and what 
this suggests: — 


Talking of 
Learning from 
Communing with 
Witnessing for 


► JESUS. 


107 


STUDY XXII. 


WITH THOMAS, THE LOYAL BUT GLOOMY 
DOUBTER. 

John 20:24-29. 

Patiently Pointing to the Convincing Evidence. 

The loyal though gloomy doubter. 

Study the three passages in which John mentions 
Thomas (n: 16; 14: 5 and this interview), to form 
an impression of his character. (Westcott’s notes on 
these passages in The Bible Commentary may help.) 
How did he prove his love and loyalty? 

How show his blunt sincerity? His determination 
to know rather than willingness to believe? 

How did his faith compare with that of the other 
apostles? Why were they all so slow to accept the 
testimony of others? Mark 16: 11; Luke 24: 11; 
Mark 16: 13, 14. 

Did Thomas ask for other evidence than they had 
had ? Luke 24 : 39, 40, 43. 

On what was he perhaps brooding alone when he 
missed the Lord’s appearance? See v. 25. 

What was the special object of the appearances on 
the first Lord’s Day? (See Andrews, p. 623.) 

What does his presence with them in v. 26 indicate? 
Why did they still tarry in Jerusalem after the di- 
rections of Matt. 28: 7, 10. 

The convincing evidence. 

What lesson had he already been taught when he 
talked of dying with Jesus? See Study 15. 

108 



What when he had professed ignorance of the 
meaning of Jesus’ announcement in John 14: 2? 

How does Jesus in the scene before us illuminate 
the teaching about Himself in John 14 : 6, 7 ? 

What evidence does Jesus offer Thomas? 

What was more convincing to him even than what 
he had required? 

What higher contact with Jesus did he get than 
the physical which he had desired? 

What evidence does Christ now offer to men like 
Thomas? What warning? v. 27b. (See Westcott.) 

In what spirit and by what methods are we to 
present it to them? 

The sublime confession. 

“The loftiest view of the Lord given in the Gos- 
pels.” — Westcott. 

How did the desired evidence of identity instantly 
become proof of Lordship and Divinity? 

How do all lower conceptions of Christ dishonor 
Him? 

The last and greatest beatitude, v. 29 b. 

The noble company of believers of testimony 
already begun outside of the apostolic group. Com- 
pare 1 Peter 1 : 8, 9. 

On what testimony may such faith and blessedness 
rest? vs. 30, 31. 

Study Hint: 

On what, more than all else, is it best to fix the at- 
tention of an honest doubter? 


109 


STUDY XXIII. 


v. 


WITH SIMON PETER, THE RESTORED 
BACKSLIDER. 

John 21:1-19. 

Reminding of the Cause of Former Failure; Empha- 
sizing the Necessity for the future of Love and 
Obedience; Showing Conhdence and Trust. 

The “stone” overthrown becomes a rock of 
offence. 

The agents in the disaster. 

1. Satan. Sought a high mark. 

How did he obtain his opportunity ? Luke 22 : 
31. Not omnipotent. Permission granted in view of 
the outcome, v. 32. 

2. Peter. 

“Offended” in Jesus, in spite of warnings. Re- 
view the scenes of Study 19. 

Eager to investigate (John 20: 3), but heavy 
heart made feet slow (v. 4) and faith dull (vs. 8-10). 

Now out of place, — back at his old trade, — yet 
in disciples’ company, and where Jesus may be met. 
Matt. 28: 10. 

The Master-workman fitting it into its place 
again. 

1. Warning and intercession (Luke 22: 32), fol- 
lowed by special attention (Mark 16: 7 — notice that 


no 



the angel uses the name “Peter” not “Simon” — Luke 
24 : 34- 

What serves to remove the “offence of the 
Cross” ? 

2. The personal interview. 

Is this the first since the resurrection? 

Now at the old place and work, reminding of 
former call. Luke 5 : 10. 

After night of fruitless toil (“that night they 
took nothing”), — at the end of self. 

3. The evidence offered. One of the “many 
proofs” of Acts 1 : 3. 

(1) Of power. 

The full net. Reminding of what and 
promising what? 

No word of objection here as in Luke 

5: 5- 

(2) Of love. The hot breakfast. How much 
needed ? 

How are the hands that had been pierced 
here engaged? 

4. The thrice-repeated question. 

Tender but searching. Reminding him of his 
professions, warnings, and denials; of his self-con- 
fident comparison of himself with others. Matt. 26: 
32, 33- 

Calls him, as heretofore, by his old name, — Simon, 
son of John. (R. V.). 

Simplifies the question; at last using Peter’s own 
word for “love,” probing into the depths of his heart. 
(See Rotherham’s note on v. 17.) 

The “stone” on the foundation. 

1. It stands the test. 

Duller eyes than John (v. 7), but still im- 
petuous, reverent love. 


hi 


In Luke 5, “depart”; in Matt. 14, “bid me 
come” ; here plunges in unbidden. 

First to obey the Master’s word. v. 11. 

His answers show his new estimate of Jesus’ 
knowledge of himself. 

His third answer lays bare to the Lord his 

heart. 

2. The commission. 

Formerly catch; now feed lambs, tend sheep, 
feed sheep. 

Not seeking individuals only, but shepherding 
a flock. 

3. The prophecy and the command. 

The fuller statement of John 13: 36, 37. 

Borne on the cross when cross bearing ends. 
2 Peter 1 : 14. How was it fulfilled ? 

Follow Me, even unto death. 

How does he show a flash of the old spirit of 
comparison in the question about John, his comrade? 

4. The motive that must inspire all useful ser- 
vice. 

Not determination to succeed; not unwilling- 
ness to be behind others; not desire for men’s ap- 
proval, — but the constraining love of Christ. 2 Cor. 
5 : 14 . 

How, in the light of this interview, can we best 
help those who have been active in Christian service, 
but have fallen back? 

“We who so tenderly were sought, 

Shall we not joyful seekers be, 

And to Thy feet divinely brought, 

Help weaker souls, dear Lord, to Thee? 

“ Celestial Seeker, send us forth! 

Almighty Lover, teach us love! 

Then shall we yearn to help our earth 
As yearned the Holy One above!” 


1 12 


STUDY XXIV. 


WITH HIS FOLLOWERS, AS THEY FACE 
THE WORK OF WINNING ALL MEN 
TO HIM. 

Luke 24:49-53; Acts 1:1-12. 

Clearly Indicating Their Work, Its Nature and 
Scope ; Promising Abundant Power and Showing 
How It is to be Received. 

This last study may well occupy a full hour in class. 

The place and the hour. 

On Olivet, “over against Bethany.” (R. V.) In a 
retired spot. What associations already made the 
mountain sacred? 

What impression does the narrative in Luke 24: 
35-53, if taken alone, make as to the time of its oc- 
currences ? 

What fuller note of time does Luke give in Acts 

1: 1-3? 

For a summary of Jesus’ appearances during the 
“forty days,” see Andrews, pp. 637-639, or Kephart’s 
Outline, paragraphs 59-65. 

What considerations make His parting words most 
precious ? 

The need. 

1. The work to be done. 

(1) Study the commissions given by the Risen 


Lord. 


a. To the eleven and others with them on 
the Resurrection evening. John 20: 21-23; Luke 24: 
33-36, 44-48. 

b. To the eleven and other disciples, 
more than five hundred in all (1 Cor. 15: 6), on “the 
mountain” in Galilee, — some familiar but retired spot 
where such a gathering would not be interfered with. 
Matt. 28: 16-20; Mark 16: 15-18. 

c. Perhaps also at other times and places, 
but on the same theme. Acts 1 : 3. Always the fu- 
ture, not the past. 

(2) Note in these passages what He taught 
them of its nature and extent. It was to be — 

a. World-wide. How is this shown in 
Matthew, Mark, Luke, Acts? 

From an appointed centre. Luke 24: 

47- Why? 

Following a systematic and thorough 
plan of campaign. Acts 1 : 8. 

b. Comprehensive and spiritual. Includ- 
ing the supreme welfare of man and society (see 
Mark 16: 15, R. V.) for this, and the eternal, age. 

Preach. The gospel — Mark; repent- 
ance and remission of sins — Luke; communicate for- 
giveness of sins — John. (See tenses in John 20: 23, 
Greek text or Rotherham’s version.) “The Commis- 
sion of the Christian Society, not of the Christian 
Ministry.” — Westcott. 

Witness. Luke. “My witnesses.” 
Acts 1 : 8, R. V. 

Disciple. Matthew. 

Baptize. Matthew and Mark. “Into 
the name” (not names) of the Triune God. 

Teach. Matthew. Obedience to all 
My commands. 


Not only evangelize and testify, but 
win, initiate, train. 

Find and meditate on each passage 
here suggested. Realize the immensity of the task, 
— the individuality of the method. 

2. The men to do it. 

(1) Provincial in origin. What was their ti- 
tle even on the lips of the heavenly messengers ? 
Acts i : io. 

(2) Narrow and material in conceptions. 

What misunderstanding still underlay 

their eager question in Acts 1:6? On what point 
were their thoughts centered? (See Rotherham’s note 
and compare Luke 19: 11.) 

(3) Timid in spirit. John 20: 19. 

(4) Slow to believe — 

a. His teaching. John 6 : 62 ; 20 : 17. 

b. The Scriptures. Luke 24 : 44, 45. 

c. The testimony of others. Mark 16 : 14. 

d. Even their own experiences. Luke 
24 : 41 ; Matt. 28 : 17. 

Yet they were Jesus’ friends (John 15: 15), 
who loved Him (John 16: 27), worshipped Him as 
their God (Matt. 28: 17), and recognized Him as 
their Lord (John 20: 28; 21: 15). To such, and to 
all like them, are given — 

The Leader’s promises. 

1. His own relation to them. 

(1) They but continue the work the Father 
committed to Christ. John 20: 21. 

(2) Who now has all authority in heaven and 
(hence) on earth. Matt. 28 : 18. See also Mark 16 : 
19. What Satan deceitfully offered had been won 
on the Cross. 




(3) Will be with them throughout the whole 
campaign. Matt. 28: 20, R. V. margin. 

Not as during His humiliation, which has 
ended. See Luke 24: 44. “Was with you.” 

But no less personally and really. See 
emphasis on pronouns in Matt. 28: 20, Rotherham’s 
version. 

For an illustration of how this can be, 
see Acts 7 : 55, 56, and trace His presence throughout 
the Acts. 1 : 24 ; 2 : 47 ; 3 : 26, etc. 

(4) And will come again in like manner as 
they saw Him go. Acts 1 : 11. 

“ Let all that look for hasten 
The coming joyful day.” 

Acts 3:19-21, R. V. 

2. The gift of power. 

How had this been foretold by David? Psa. 
68: 18; Eph. 4: 8. By John the Baptist? Luke 
3: 1 6b. 

Why is it pre-eminently “the promise of the 
Father” ? 

When had they heard it from Jesus? 

What special pains does he take to keep it 
before their minds. Luke 24 : 49 ; Acts 1 : 4, 5, 8. 

What earnest of the fuller outpouring had they 
already received from Him? John 20: 22. 

What did His attitude in parting betoken ? 

What is the significance of the terms used in 
Luke 24 : 49 and Acts 1:5? 

What is far more important than knowing 
“times and seasons”? 

The way to obtain the gift. 

What had Jesus already taught as to who may have 
this gift, and how? John 7: 37-39. 

116 


What does He now say of it? John 20: 22; Luke 
24: 49a. 

The apostles’ special instructions. 

“Wait for (Rotherham, “Abide around”) the 
promise of the Father.” 

“Not many days,” in the city of your enemies, 
the place of My cross and empty tomb. 

The apostles’ example of fellowship and prayerful- 
ness. Acts 1 : 14; 2: 1 ; 4: 31. Of faith and praise. 
Luke 24: 52, 53. 

How does Peter speak of this gift as free to all? 
Acts 2: 38, 39; 10: 45. In both passages the term 
is a strong one. (Rotherham, “free-gift.”) 

What does he mention as the one condition ? Acts 
5 : 32 . 

How does Saul fulfill this condition, and with what 
result? See Acts 9, especially vs. 5, 6, 17, 20. 

How does he communicate the gift to others ? Acts 
19: 1-7. 

How may we do both? 

“ Doth not the Spirit still descend, 

And bring the heavenly fire? 

Doth not He still Thy church extend, 

And waiting souls inspire? 

“ Come, Holy Ghost! in us arise! 

Be this Thy mighty hour! 

And make Thy willing people wise 
To know Thy day of power.” 


STUDY XXV. 


FINAL REVIEW. 

1. Let each member tabulate Studies 14 to 
24 in the same manner that was followed in the 
first review. See page 70. If this has been 
done week by week, as suggested, the work 
of reviewing will now become a pleasure, not 
a burden. 

2. Study then this second chart, column by 
column, as suggested in the previous review, 
making applications to our own work from 
Jesus’ wide contact with people, His grasp of 
every situation, His methods of approach and 
the great truths He taught. 

3. Have a final drill on the passages that 
have been committed. 

4. With both charts before him let the 
student review the seven periods in their order 
and recall the characteristic features of Jesus’ 
activity in each. 

5. Without reference to the charts recall 
to mind as many as possible of the interviews 
we have studied. Try to locate each in its 
proper period and tell why you place it there. 

6. In closing the course ask yourself some 
such personal questions as the following : — 

118 


(1) What have I gained from this course 
of study? Why not more? 

(2) How can I pass on to others the good 
that has come to me? 

(3) If this class has been a stimulus to me 
in personal life and work, how am I without 
it to keep close to Christ and useful for Him ? 

“ We may not climb the heavenly steeps 
To bring the Lord Christ down; 

In vain we search the lowest deeps, 

For Him no depths can drown. 

“ But warm, sweet, tender, even yet 
A present help is He; 

And faith has still its Olivet, 

And love its Galilee. 

“ O Lord and Master of us all, 

Whate’er our name or sign, 

We own Thy sway, we hear Thy call, 

We test our lives by Thine.” 














INDEX 


TO THE DIFFERENT CLASSES OF PERSONS 
WITH WHOM WE FIND JESUS DEAL- 
ING IN THESE STUDIES. 


With followers of Christ in need of help. 

Study. 

Page. 

1 . 

Penitent, but without assurance, 

VIII 

52 

2. 

Outspoken, but in need of teaching. 

XII 

66 

3. 

Ambitious and self-seeking, 

XVIII 

92 

4. 

Self-confident and self-willed, 

XIX 

95 

5. 

Without power to resist temptation, 

II 

31 

6. 

Discouraged because of failure, 

XXIII 

110 

7. 

Doubting Christ because of personal 




trials. 

VII 

49 


Overwhelmed by sorrow, 

Puzzled by the mystery of Christ’s 

XV 

78 


sufferings, 

XXI 

105 

8. 

Lacking acquaintance with the living 




Christ, 

XXII 

108 


Lacking power for Christian service, 

XXIV 

113 


II. With those who are not following Christ. 

1. Seekers after Him. 

Interested, but ignorant of what a 


Christian life really means, 

XVII 

89 

Earnest, but needing instruction, 

III 

37 

Tired of the old life and ready to be 

saved, 

XVI 

81 

With wrong views of truth. 

Challenging Christ’s Divine origin 

and authority, 

XI 

64 

Denying the truth of Christ’s atoning 

death, 

X 

61 

Doubting the truth of Christ’s resur- 

j XXI 

105 

rection, 

1 XXII 

108 


' \ 

V 

3. With divided heart. 


Moral and respected, but loving this 



world too well, 

XVI 

81 


Well disposed, but only half-hearted, 

XIV 

75 


Ready to discuss, but not to act, 

XIV 

75 


Disposed to do right, but afraid, 
Accepting His teaching and miracles, 

XX 

98 


but not ready to believe in Him as 
Saviour and Lord, 

IV 

40 

4. 

The self-righteous. 

Disdaining sinners, but seeing nothing 




wrong in one’s self, 

VIII 

52 


Critical of Christ’s followers, 

VI 

47 

5. 

The indifferent and prejudiced, 

V 

42 

6. 

Bitter opposers, 

IX 

55 




122 


INDEX 


f 




TO THE PORTIONS OF THE GOSPELS 
TREATED IN THIS COURSE OF 
STUDY. 


Matthew. 

Mark. 

Luke. 

John. 

Study. Page. 



2:39-52 


I 

27 

3:13-4:11 

1:9-13 

3:21, 22 I 
4:1-13 f 


II 

31 




1:29-51 

III 

37 




3:1-15 

IV 

40 




4:1-42 

V 

42 

12:1-21 

2:23-28 I 
3:1-6 f 

6:1-11 


VI 

47 

11:2-19 


7:18-35 


VII 

49 



7:36-50 


VIII 

52 

12:22-37 

3:19-30 



IX 

55 

16:13-28 

8:27-38 1 
9:1 f 

9:18-27 


X 

61 




7:14-52 

XI 

64 




9:1-41 

XII 

66 

8:19-22 


9:51, 57-62 1 
13:22-30 ) 


XIV 

75 




11:1-46 

XV 

78 

19:16-22 

10:17-22 

18:18-23 ) 
19:1-10 j 


XVI 

81 




12:20-36 

XVII 

89 



22:24-30 

13:1-20 

XVIII 

92 

26:30-41 


22:31-38 1 

13:36-38 1 

• XIX 

95 



22:54-62 f 

18:10,11 } 

27:19-26 

15:3-5 

23:4-19 

18:28-38 1 
19:4-16 J 

XX 

98 



24:13-35 


XXI 

105 




20:24-29 

XXII 

108 




21:1-19 

XXIII 

110 



24:49-53 

(Acts 

1:1-12) 

XXIV 

113 



123 





















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